" YF Correspondence 1806"
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" To Mr Don. Sutherland
York Factory 7th Sept. 1805
Mr Don. Sutherland
As Mr Sinclair intends you shall direct a small department during the ensuing winter. I place confidence in your Attention Industry and Economy and hope you will show yourself worthy of such distinction which will give much pleasure to your
Sincere friend
John McNab"


" To Mr Cook Master at NRiver
York Factory 12th Sept. 1805
Dear Sir
Unfavorable weather has detained your men some days they made a vain attempt and James Ballenden fell Sick immediately after I think he is not so ill as he says. John Stickler is in his stead and I have told Ballenden as the duty is urgent he must allow 40 Shillings as a Comp'n to Stickler for his own inconsideration, you will send Stickler as one of the two men you proposed coming down this. I have made him expect and he is provided accordingly.
The Gentl. join in best wishes for a happy & Succ. winter to you with
Dear Sir
Your &c
Jn McNab"


" From Mr Sinclair Master at Oxford House
Oxford House 22nd Sept. 1805
Dear Sir
Upon my arrival here I found your son Mr Tho. McNab had been some time at the House I would willingly have keept him all winter. But knowing that you was anxious to see him would not detain him I made a proposal to him to go in Charge of Goods & he was ready to do any thing. I hope you will send me two good Men for Garson & Hawkland is of very little service but at the House. 3 men I sent to the Isl'd Lake Four could not go in a Canoe as the road is bad. - Don Sutherland Geo. Robinson Alex Birston Jn Rofs Gilbert Manson & Jn Taylor I intend to send off to morrow morn'g either to the Winnepegoshish or Jack river according as they hear the French is to Winter. - I expect them daily here I have not seen the Nwind since my arrival he wants a house in a Lake 4 Days work above. If you please to send your son he will have no objection to come I think. this will enable us to make another little Sett't the more posts we have the better. In case your son should not come I hope you will send 2 men that we may have some chance to oppose 10 or 12 Frenchmen.
I Remain
Dear Sir
Your Obt. Hubl Servt.
William Sinclair."


" To Mr Sinclair Master at Oxford House
York Factory 30th Sept. 1805
Dear Sir
I rec'd your Letter on the 27th Ult. and have sent Tho. McNab expeditiously back according to your request and one man only - Should the Canadians come down to Oxford as you dread I hope you will find Tho McNab useful he has repeatedly been trusted with a small Post and I understand has given satisfaction. you will be cautious in shewing him indulgence which your inclination on my Acct. may excite he has not experienced any hitherto and your own good sense will tell you the danger of its operation on a youthful mind.
He is to steer large or small Canoe without exception and in the season of businefs in the river act as a Steersman when required the articles requested are sent. I shall expect to hear from you by a Winter packet.
I am
Dear Sir
Your very Hubl Servt
John McNab."


" From Mr Sandison
Great Fall 22nd May 1805
Sir
As an opportunity is offered I have sent you these few lines as a Token of Friendship between us I am likewise Sir very happy that your son is on the Point of going off in hopes of meeting with you.
Sir he winter'd with me at great fall and I recommend him to you as a faithful servant Sir I am sorry to inform you of the Trade of this Quarter is much shortened by reason of many oppositions from Canadians which is the confusion of the Indians as we vie with each other who can throw away the most of our employers property on them before any return can be made I am a Thousand Beaver short of Last year my Trade this year is two thousand one hundred and is purchased at the great expence of the Company.
I conclude with wishing you a good Trade
Your Most Obt. Servt.
Dav'd Sandison."


" From Mr Cook Master at NRiver
Moose Nose 28th Sept. 1805
My Dear Sir
I have sent down the two men accord'g to your desire I beg to recommend the Indians Lads who conduct them particularly Mayweechick who undertook the Job notwithstanding the latenefs of the season with the greatest Cheerfulnefs - We have heard from the upper Settlements by Indians who state that the Canadians have settled near R Spence but not in any great force. I have acquainted Harper & Spence with the Demand for Bears & Swans Skins.I have desired them to give the greatest Encouragement to the Natives for these prime Articles.
The Indians at this place have provided themselves wth a considerable quantity of Dried provision which I hope will enable them to carry on the Trapping businefs with good Exertion & Effect.
In the way of Trade I have every thing to hope from the present prospect of affairs & in the Articles of provisions we have nothing to fear but the Casualties incident to a long and dreary Winter.
I remain wishing you every felicity
Dear Sir
Your most Obt. Huble Servt.
Will. H. Cook
I have made no agreement with the Lads but have told them that they are to be paid by you which If you approve will answer my purpose very well as our Stock of every article is rather short."


" From Mr James Tate Master at Merry House
Merrys House 23 Sept. 1805
Dear Sir
We had indifferent pafsage after we left York Owing to the Shoalnefs of water and leaking of the old Canoe we arrived here the 22d I learn from 2 Ind. that arrived here from the french House that is built this Summer near to the head of Severn river there has 3 men been building there all the Summer the Indians is not likely to do much good this winter as they are running from House to House. this is the third time they have been here since I left the House in the Spring and brought only 10 B. so how we make out here time will determine, there shall be nothing left undone to draw as many of the Ind. from the french as pofsible. I beg you will accept of my best thanks for the breed of Hogs - I am with the greatest respect
Sir
Your most Obedt. Huble Servt.
James Tate."


" To Mr Cook Master at NRiver
York Factory 4th October 1805
Dear Sir
I rec'd your Letter by the two men and your Indians who are sent expeditiously back to you.
I rec'd a Letter from Oxford three days ago Mr Sinclair dreads two or 3 Canoes of Canadians about him before the winter sets in - Yesterday I sent two men exprefsly to enable him to have some chance in so powerful an opposition - It gives me much pleasure to find better news from the NRiver and that your hopes are so promising gives much satisfaction to
Dear Sir
Your very Huble Serv.
John McNab."


"From Mr Auld Chief at Churchill
Churchill Factory
Sir
Yours of the 25th and the 28 Ult. I received yestersday and am certainly sorry that your Packet was not carried by your Indians instead of others sent off with the utmost dispatch to overtake them who ought to have had it but I presume that your Indians in pursuance of my orders to them had made very great haste in getting to you to which they had the very want of the Packet itself to enable them to make the greater speed. - by the bye in future it would be proper to take out the Packet from its great heavy case here which hurt my Indians considerably it was owing to a very great want of attention in the people who were ordered to ferry your Indians acrofs this river that they did not first take them on board the Ship where the Packet was ready prepared for them but Captain Turner would explain to you fully the circumstance and he will no doubt do away any effort which your letter of the 25th (so precipitately inserted in your correspondence Book) is intended to produce on the Committee Unfortunately my Indians loaded with your heavy Packet Box could not make as much haste as I could have wished and to encrease my sorrow and your petulance they laid 3 or 4 days on the Northern Banks of Nelson River before an opportunity of crofsing offered. I had promised the Committee that I would dispatch your Packet instantly on our arrival here, it was not my fault it did not go I also promised to exert myself to the utmost in dispatching the businefs of the ship this wholly prevented me looking into the correspondence between the factories else I might have seen in a postscript a request for Brandy and Tobacco and would have sent by the Ship what could be spared but really so extremely hurried were we that the private correspondence of both Mr Topping and myself was in a great degree neglected nay I could not even get a duplicate packet prepared nor have I at this moment even a copy of our Indent. I have thus far I hope indicated myself and shewn I have not refused obeying my Masters orders as you accuse me of nor should I have condescended to notice in this was your letter of the former date if it were not to convince the Committee of the ungenerous and precipitate censure which you with such haste recorded in your Correspondence for their perusal at the same time perhaps I ought to be obliged to you for your information of this written on the back of your letter after it was closed. pray Mr McNab are you ignorant of the effects which your charge against me is likely to produce rankling in the minds of my Employers for awhole year unrefuted A gentlemen the moment my Packet men brought so clear and convincing proof of my innocence and anxiety to remedy the grofs neglect of the people who were the true cause of the unlucky mistake would have torn the detested calumny from the Book.

The second paragraph of that letter will not answer your purpose you are pleased to remind me of YF having formerly supplied CR with Brandy which we hauled 10 years ago. No Sir YF must not claim this as a precident for not having a proper stock of a prime article in our Trade I must inform you that at that time we had a large stock of Brandy in the Factory but we had not a Rectifying Apparatus for concentrating the Spirits therefore Mr Stayner had Spirits of Wine hauled from YF for the purpose of sending Inland the ensuing Summer to much more advantage than common Brandy. Profefsion of obedience and attachment to the Interests of our employers are easily made and in the present case will be duly appretiated by those whom they are intended to effect but I can afsure you they will most likely fail for every member of that Honble Board was surprised and affected at your not having indented for Brandy thus Sir you see it is not so easy to deceive them as you imagin'd and it will not fail to strike them with concern and dismay to find the principal articles of commerce are those for which you are forced to be supplied with from the neighbouring Factories. Last year at your request I supplyed you with Gun powder Severn this gives you Tobacco and to morrow I dispatch a Boat with 160 Gallons of Spirits of wine which nothing but your very distrefsed state would have induced me to do at this dangerous season of the year and on such a dreadful coast where not a single harbour presents itself between the two Factories. I have determined in case of bad weather that the Spirits shall be left in a safe place from which you can more easily haul it in the winter than come all the way to this place.

Having lived so long among the Indians I may perhaps be forgiven if I expect some credit for unequivocal services and my anxiety for the promotion of the Interests of our Employers will probably justify me in recommending a careful and retrospective investigation of the real expenditure during several years at your Factory and not be guided by the result of two unsuccefsful years. To this my regard for you points directly to the proper means that instead of running about the Country you will do well to continue at home where you are and you may rely on my not intruding myself while I hope you will be so profitably and beneficially for your Employers engaged. This is in answer of the last paragraph of both your letters.

I am now Sir to inform you that to supply YF or any place belonging to the Hudsons Bay Company will be in future as it has been hitherto my pleasure and duty nor will it require any precedent and you may at all times expect to share in their property entrusted to me here as well as in my censures when you act unbecoming a Man and a Gentleman.
William Auld."


" From Mr Auld Chief at Churchill
Churchill Factory 18th Dec. 1805
Sir
I embrace as early an opportunity of sending to you as the season will admit of. I am to inform you that in consequence of your request last Fall for Brandy I fitted out a Batteau with 160 Gallons of Double Distilled Spirits with the intention of carrying it to you but after having got the length of Broad River a very heavy gale of Easterly Wind rendered it absolutely prudent to leave the Spirits at a safe place.
If it be necefsary to run the liquor off into smaller kegs for the convenience of hauling it may not be superfluous to say that when the Rundlets were left they were all in good condition and contained the full quantity and of the same strength as that now sent you. The distance for your people to haul it will be only 4 days and that all very good road.
I now send one of the people who was in the Batteau along with an Indian he will shew your people where it is. I have also sent all my dogs loaded with 32 1/2 Gallons more Spirits and 100 Skains of Twine according to your desire.
I am to request your permifsion should we be short of Brandy next season and the Ship come here first that we may get a part of that consigned for YF. I am further to request you will supply me now with the following Articles. 1 Cwt Soap 1 Cwt Loaf Sugar 2 lbs Thread blue and green 1 large and 1 small paint brush as many Sashes as can be spared 6 Pair of ribbed Stockings 2 Groce of Buttons and 20 or 30 lbs Hops.
We have had no Deer this Fall but the great number of Partridges in a degree compensate for them.
Our people here as usual enjoy good health. I have ordered so that my packet men may reach you by the 28th and hope they will not be detained beyond the 2nd January at the furthest.
William Auld
P.S. I send you the letter which was intended to be delivered you last Fall per Batteau as it is entered in our Correspondence Book
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On looking over our Stock we find the 3 following articles wanted viz. knives yew, Tacks, Corkwood. We hope you will spare us the Hops requested as we have none & only received 8 Casks of Porter by the Ship
I send by order of the Committee a List of such superfluous Articles as can be spared from here.

Trading Goods
Boots water
Breeches Corduroy
Glafses Looking
Kettles Brafs & Copper of No. 1.3.4.5 17.18.19
Kettles Camp? No. 7.8.9 Tin from No. 12 @ 20
Scrapers
Shoes Mens
Shot.
Stores
Alkanet Root
Anvil
Bellows Chamber
Corks pr Gunlocks
Emery
Pinchers
Speltre
Springs Main pr? Lock
Saws Hand
Vice pr Bench
Trowels plaistering
Chives
Jointer Heading
Knives Drawing Heading & Hollowing
Planes Bead Astragal Jack Jointer O.G. Quarter Round Scew Rebate
Oars of sizes
Candlesticks brafs
Tea kettle Copper Large."


" To Mr Auld Chief at Churchill
York Factory 3rd Jan. 1806
Sir
I rec'd your letter of the 18th Ult. another also undated.
I shall be sorry if any thing I have said should give you disquiet your strenuous exertions to further the general good of the Service by afsisting York will guard you against the very small influence I can presume to expect from my long and imperfect Services as they are. I have hitherto made myself easy at what any fellow Servant can say.
I must confefs I should have been glad to have had the pleasure of your Conversation I expect Mr Thomas from Severn European news would have been a treat as our stock of News papers is but small and irregular. I cannot stay at home as you friendly advise and why not leave it from Choice when as formerly I have Officers into whose hands I can with perfect satisfaction lay my little power & consequence.
I shall change Censure to Candour or some other pleasant word & trust you will join in letting the former with all its appropriates rest in the power of those we ought to serve with afsiduity and Cordiality.
I am thinking to defer hauling the Spirits home till the season advances and now send men to stay there till then the Twine and Spirits by your packet now is safe rec'd. you may detain one or two pipes of Brandy if required. such articles in your list as can be spared are now sent - having afsisted Severn and the Curtail of our Indent in Europe hinders a Compliance with the whole.
Before my procedure Inland next Summer I wish to know if you intend again occupying Green Lake Mr Sutherland & 2 Canoes crews now winter there some articles of stores which you can spare I shall probably send for in March and if Letters are rec'd from the Bay (as I much wish) they shall at the same time be forwarded to you.
Hitherto the Season has been remarkably mild & plentiful and our Hedges and Nets have been productive.
I am
Yours as usual
John McNab"


" From Mr Cook Master at NRiver
Moose's Nose 2nd Feb. 1806
My Dear Sir
I received with much concern your Information respecting the Disposition of the Canadians in the South Track and am no lefs concerned to apprise you of a Strong party from the same Band having made their appearance in the fall of the year at Sepawesk. An Ind attached to our Interest who had collected some Beaver skins to the number of thirty was the author of this Intelligence - unwilling that the Furs should fall into the Hands of the Canadians this trusty fellow had on their appearance deputed two of his Family with them to the Split Lake & at the same time to acquaint us with the new situation of affairs - If it was necefsary to comment here, I should not be able to proceed, for I find it as difficult to do justice to this peice of extraordinary Conduct in the Indian as to exprefs our own particular Feeling on the disagreable news that accompan'd it. I shall therefore only remark that the Natives in general give a decided preference to our side and that we stand in our own light if we do not by keeping aloof from the Canadians give them these Opportunities of serving us.
A few Northern Indians paid a visit to the Split Lake House a short time ago - they had no Furs & it was conjectured they came from the Athapascow but fearing they might be Runagates from Churchill we discouraged them from any further Intercourse.
The Trade of the lower places is about 400 Beaver which tho' small is more than equal to the Average of former years - I have great hopes still that this place will do well as the Indians are at this time trapping and the Martins are reported to be by no means scarce.
Our Brandy running short I beg the afsistance of 10 Gallons of High Spirits & the other articles as pr Postscript which will greatly Oblige.
Dear Sir
Your most Obed. Huble Servt.
Will. H Cook."


" To Mr Cook Master at NRiver
York Factory 24th Feb. 1806
Dear Sir
I rec'd yours of the 2nd Inst. and now send the articles requested the dogs being lame have detained your men a few days longer than intended.
Mr Auld endeavoured to afsist us with a Boat load of Spirits last fall but the weather deterred them from proceeding further than half way there they left 15 rund. 10 of which we have hauled home the other 5 we expect to get here next month.
The conduct of the Indian does great credit to you and entitles him to a distinguished reward.
I am glad your Ind. are doing well. the few that have been in here has been industrious and told us their Companions had plenty of food and had good prospects of pay'g their Debts.
No news from Severn we are daily expect'g to hear from OH with best wishes for your plenty and Succefs.
I am
Dear Sir
Your very Huble Servant
John McNab."


" To Mr Auld Chief at Churchill
York Factory 11th March 1804
Sir
This packet is sent as ment'd in my last. no news from SR or the Bay which I am Concerned for I send our Inland communication.
As you observe the Packet box is ill adapted for Carriage - In our lst Gen'l Letter the Council are directed to keep the key of the Box at York. If your Indians dislike bringing it I shall send as last year. If but one ship and she arrives here first which is not impofsiblr you may trust on having the CR Packet instantly sent to you.
I omitted mention'g to you an irregularity that appeared to the Council here pr last Ship Mr Geddes List Specifies James Rowland & Will. Sabiston sent to York for 5 years each Rowland only was landed, he told us the other was landed at CR on enquiring of Capt Turner the reason his answer was (if recollection is right) that the man was landed without his knowledge or that he forgot to look at Mr Geddes List.
Before this return I hope the Spirits you afsisted us with will be safe here - a very Consequencial circumstance for the Service at York.
We are directed to send home deers horns likely you had the same intimation at CR your being at home makes us believe you can tell how they should be consigned whether whole or if cutting them in lengths would injure the sale - I have told the Indians that for every two pair of full Buck horns they will get 1 B.
Partridges & rabbits continue numerous about us and the Indians hitherto are hunting Succefsfully.
Your &c
John McNab."


" From Mr Auld Chief at Churchill
Churchill Factory March 1806
Sir
Your Letter under date of the 3rd Jan. came in due time with the articles specified in the list.
The exertions which you are pleased to distinguish are mere common ats of duty for which I expect neither applause from my Masters nor thanks from you. Having hitherto made yourself easy at what any fellow servant can say must be a happinefs which to be unqualified it will be necefsary in future to refrain from doing or saying what will make any fellow servant uneasy.
The Account Current between the two factories now sent me as it is not necefsary have not these two years kept it and as I always have two columns Supplied & Received from YF in our Account Book the Committee will see annually and regularly what pafses and will not be misled on their comparing our Books agreably those articles sent and received last year were posted under their proper heads in our Account Book of 1805 as will now be done in the present Book.
It is impofsible for me to say whether we may again occupy Green Lake in Beaver River but the small compliment of men on our establishment (about 3/4 of the number that alone winter'd at YFactory 2 years ago) will certainly prevent us from re-occupying it next summer.
Proper attention will be paid in sending such articles as you request. I am sorry that by reason of your Indent being so curtailed you could not supply us with more than 6 lb of Hops which is a sensible disappointment especially as we have none remaining and our Porter being only in 8 Hhds emboldened me who knew you had been supplied with 30 Hhds to request a necefsary article in making Table Beer as an equivalent.
That the affairs of YF may abound in plenty of every thing is the sincere wish of
William Auld."


" From Mr Auld Chief at Churchill
Churchill Factory 21st March 1806
Sir
Your packet arrived here 19th Inst. and by the return of it you will receive such articles as can be coveniently conveyed at present as per List inclosed.
Your Inland communications contained in a single letter of Mr Cooks addrefsed to you I have frequently read over and cannot doubt of its being sent by mistake or accident but if it should not be so I see little to excite wonder in the Canadians endeavouring to distrefs the Companys Settlements they cannot hurt us much more than they have hitherto done. If it is meant however to shew me the prudent conduct of Mr Cook in refusing to encourage our N. Indians it is superfluous as I am confident in his honour and hope his example will not fail of having its efforts where it ought.
As we have no Indians who winter at the factory it would be very expensive to the Comp'y to detain any to carry the Ships packet as their return would be so late as to prevent them and their families getting to their winter ground before the frost sets in it will be therefore necefsary for you to send 2 Indians but you should keep their wives nor will it be necefsary for you to send them off from YF before the 1st August as our expences are sufficiently great without being burthened with other Indians and from the same Spirit I intend to pay wholly such packets as I shall send so comfortably to this I have not paid the Indian man whom you have now sent referring him to you. I have to request you will condescend in your next to inform me of your rate of payment as I should be unwilling to give more or lefs than you do. instead of sixty Beaver I think that twenty or thirty is very sufficient and infinitely more than they could obtain in the same time by the most succefsful trapping.

With regard to Will. Sabiston being landed here it was owing to himself in Orkney after being engaged for YF he found that a Steersman at CF had superior advantages besides he was not a little swayed by Mr Tomisons not going out again which prevented about 20 other hands from engaging for YF so he reapplied to Mr Geddes & if he neglected to alter his lists it is his fault. - As you have brushed up my memory I would enquire why you engaged again or detain Wm Budge who deserted from us to the Canadians. &? surely this is utterly obnoxious to good government instead of punishment he has received reward.

Deer Horns like every other article are to be consigned to the Committee as usual - If they are for the Cutlers use it would perhaps deteriorated the value to cut them in lengths & if they be a substitute which I very much doubt for Harts Horns which sells at ? pr lb your price will not be a great deal too much tho' I should be led to think the middling and smaller sized horn would to them be the most valuable. If they are for the Chemists it will be no disadvantage to cut them in lengths but them the price you have offered will be a great deal too much as any kind of bones are equally valuable to them I am inclined to think the Committee to try the experiment first & then they will settle on price afterwards.

They are naturally exposed to propositions by ignorant & interested people & it was not until after much ridicule the same person was also restrained from also proposing to them to establish a Seminary or breeding school for Bears at each Factory the old ones to be killed in the winter while the young would be kept for propagation thus we should be able to encrease our returns in that valuable article and raise us more on a level with the Canadians had he come himself he could scarcely have failed in encreasing the number of Afses.

The few Indians who have come in have been succefsful but I learn that several N Indians have died who were good supports to us. That the general returns may be great is the sincere wish of
William Auld.
P.S. As it is likely to happen in future as it has this season to you and myself to employ as Englishman with an Indian to carry the packet which is perhaps rather a prudent case, so it has occurred to me to propose the necefsity of laying the matter before the Committee for their sanction in bestowing a Gratuity for such extra duty attended with considerable fatigue & discomfort during its continuance & in order that this gratuity may be given with due caution it would perhaps be best if the Committee paid it in money to the object himself as the lefs that is left to our generosity the better it is for them and us."


" From Mr Bunn
Gordon House 1st June 1806
Dear Sir
After a fine Journey we arrived here on our Eighth day (Tuesday) but the water in this river was so short that we were under the necefsity of leaving the Brandy & Tobacco of the Trials Cargo at the bottom of the river - all hands in the Trial set off on Wednesday to bring it up & having used great dispatch they delivered it safe here on Friday Evening. The Houses here are in a miserable condition the small house where the Flour is kept I have been obliged to have proped up to prevent its falling & the whole of them are so leaky that I am very fearful for the Cargo. The Covering enquired so much for in the Spring I have found here & that with one I have thought proper to detain belonging to the Jupiter I hope will enable me to protect the Goods from damage.The Medicine Box supposed to be left here last year is not to be found. no Canoes yet come the first that arrive I shall dispatch to the Factory according to your Orders with wishing you a pleasant & safe Journey hither
I remain Dear Sir
Your Obed. Servt.

" To Mr Bunn
York Factory 5th June 1806
Mr Bunn
By Will. Mansons return I rec'd yours with pleasure to hear all was delivered safe at the Rock and so espeditiously? - I have no doubt of your taking care of the Cargoes safety from the precautions you have taken.
I mean to set out in a few days and shall be happy to hear good news from Inland on my Arrival at the Rock and am
Your Obed. Servt.
John McNab"


" From Mr Fidler Inland Master
Nottingham Athap. 23 Dec. 1805
I now send two men to the Isle Isle ala crofs with Letters for Seskachewan an river &c which gives me this opportunity of writing to you & letting you know our situation.
We left Cumberland House 8th Aug. and the 24th we arrived at the Isle a la crofs where I left Mr Sutherland with two Canoes for the Beaver river and I proceeded forward to this place with the other two when I arrived the 11th Sept. and found all well thank God but no provisions in the House and only 75 B. The Canadians during the summer had used the most unjustifiable ? to prevent our people from getting any thing from the Indians and since last spring none has been here in an open manner. - The Canad. privately detroyed our Canoes that they had to go after Indians or on Hunting - pulled up our Garden stuff. - came into the House and examined all the skins traded here this summer. Pitched a Tent within 5 yards of our House and would not suffer an Indian to come near the House even the sight of a common Canad. is sufficient to keep them away they are all so very much afraid - at the Slave Lake they have forceably taken Indians out of the House who came in to Trade - whenever our people went out on duck hunting for their Lively'd some of the Canadians would always accompany them & holloing & frightened every thing away and it appears that it has been their fixed determination to starve our people - our men had such a very disagreeable Summer that not a man would remain another if his wages was doubled - we are therefore under the necefsity of Leaving this in the spring - so very few of us and situated as we are against such number of worst actions & Designs that we are not able to do any thing here advantageous for the Company in order to make the best for the Company Mr Swain & self told the Canadian Proprietors here that if they would pay us all our outstanding Indians Credits amount'g to 500 MB we would withdraw all our men away from this next Spring which they at last agreed to
Mr Swain went away for the Slave Lake 15th Sept. with one Canoe and we have not heard any thing from that or any other Quarter since - Thank God our fishing has been fortunate we have now 3000 in Stock - The weather has been mild hitherto & but little Snow & there is the appearance of a fine winter.
We shall be heavy loaded in the spring in Taking out every thing that it will be the 12th July at Soonest before that we shall be able to reach Oxford House.
Wishing you a happy winter and better propects to the Companys affairs than here and
I Remain
Your Obdt Hble Servt.
P Fidler.
P.S. Please give my compliments to the Gentlemen around your Table."


" From Mr Sutherland Inland Master
Paint Creek 25th May 1806
Sir
By the arrival of the fall packet on the 25th Feb. I was favour'd with your letter but I am sorry to say that the place I was appointed to last year has proved to be (I doubt) a lofs to the Company however I am Concious of doing the utmost in my power for their Interest but the case is the forces of our unjust Opponents is so augment'd by the Junction of both Companies that their is no Chance left for us in a country where the Ind. is entirely attached to the Canadians and in the Quarter I was they are really so from being long accustomed to them and through fear of being beat should they attempt to give a Skin to any of us. Indeed the few that I saw of them was so frightened that they would not accept of any article from me for nothing and had it not been for some Barren Ground Ind. that visited us I would not have had a skin. - We lived tolerably well plenty of Fish & some meat - A most atrocious action perpetrated by Will. Budge has given me much discontent the particulars of which is too tedious but will refer it to Mr Bird. I make no doubt but I may be blamed about it was for want of men and an anxiety for forwarding the Companys businefs that Induced me to send him singly with the Canadians.
According to your Order I have attended to Mr Birds Orders as far as Circumstances would allow. Consequently I abandoned Green Lake the 14th of May and now am getting ready to proceed on an Expedition that appears some what Hazardous but I wish it may prove advantageous for my Employers. - I hope still to be at Cumberland House to attend your Orders in due time & hopes that if I am thought worthy of a post that I will be appointed to one that will require some Exertion on my part for the solitude & in active winter that I pafsed last year Often rendered me miserable.
Should be glad to know what date my Contract at 40 £ pr An. Expires.
Sir
Your Most Obt. Huble Servt.
James Sutherland"


" From Mr Sinclair Master at Oxford House
Oxford House 27th May 1806
Dear Sir
The Indians whom I depended upon to go Down with Letters according to your request Deceiv'd me. This will I hope Apologize for my not sending.
We have had a plentiful winter the Deer was numerous near to us & as times is I cannot but say the few Indians that stays by this Settlement as exerted themselves well my Trade is nearly 1200 MB.
I have had no Letters from the Island Lake since the Commencement of winter but I hear by Indians that the Canadians is there at their old stations - James Halcro is where Mr Isham was last winter and John Ballendine is where James Halcro was - when the Indian rec'd information there was no french men in opposition to Ballendine & he further said that most of the Indians was with him which I hope is True - Don. Sutherland wintered in the Winnipeg oo shish & in march when I saw him he had about 300 MB Furs of a Good quality - I have directed Don. Sutherland to go up to the Jack River with what remains he may have & their build a small House - to reside in during the summer & to watch the motions of our opponents - I have appointed three men to go with him - Two of which is not fit to work in the lower rivers - the other man is to come down by the Nward Canoes as they pafs the Jack River I flatter myself this will meet your Approbation.
To forward businefs it is my intention to meet the Island Lake Canoes when they enter the knee Lake & settle them to go down as fast as pofsible Wishing you a good Trade and plentiful summer
I Remain
Dear Sir
Your Obt. Huble Servt.
Will. Sinclair.
P.S. Thomas McNab & James Ballendine went to Don. Sutherland after Christmafs & have resided with him since."


" From Mr Sinclair Master at Oxford House
Oxford House 28th May 1806
Dear Sir
A half hour after having sealed my former Letter the Canoe from Winnipeg oo shish made her appearance in the Lake which detained the Ind. from Emb'g yesterday - they are to set off this Day a I have told them to proceed down as fast as pofsible the trade from there is about 500 MB. 3 days from this I shall be able to Leave this House when I expect to meet the Island Lake men in the knee Lke I shall endeavour to forward the businefs as fast as in my power - Tho. is well & presents his dutiful repects.
I remain
Dear Sir
Your Obt. Huble Servt.
Will. Sinclair."


" From Mr Kennedy Master at CH
Cumberland House 7th June 1806
Sir
I had the pleasure of receiving your favour of last Fall at this place where I have pafsed a tolerable winter in respect to provisions having been pretty succefsful in fishing and not in want of meat at times the moose being plentiful round us all winter & the great quantity of snow made it easy to hunt them particularly in the Spring of the year.
I suppose there never was a stronger opposition here & so few on our side to oppose them as we experienced only four men at this House in the winter & three of that I may say young hands at least their was not one that could run out a trip to an Ind. but Jn Ballendine so that I was obliged to run out myself twice in the course of the winter.
I was obliged to relinquish the Moose Lake where the Canadians winter'd & from the few Indians at that place I believe made pretty good returns - could I have detained the men sent up in the Fall I could have been able to have sent there but I was obliged to send them up above at Mr Birds exprefs command before he left this place.
George Flett with four men wintered up the Sturgeon River where he was constantly harrafsed by the Canadians, his returns about 270 B here from nearly an equal number of Ind. I got about 1400 skins which when you consider I hope you will do me the justice to believe it was not thro' want of attention or alacrity that made me remain at Cumberland for I thought it was my duty to be wherever the most was to be gained.
The Trade from this place will not be found far short of last year when 500 B was procured at the Moose Lake and I hope it will be found to be got at a moderate Expence considering the disadvantages I laboured under.
I have done all in my power to make the Indians prepare the Swan skins according to your directions but they are so indolent & carelefs that rather than skin them for 1/2 a beaver they will not be at the trouble - A few will be found in the CH packages which were killed about the House and skinned according to directions as sample for the Indians to follow.
I here with send a Copy of Cumberland House acct. with the packages of furs.
As my third Contract will expire in 1807 which I have duely served at low wages I hope it will not now be throught presumptive in me in humbly requesting their Honors to grant me £ 40 for 3 years following & I appeal to your Candour for a recommendation hoping my conduct hitherto will not be found lefs deserving than others in my station.
Wishing you a pleasant Summer and good returns from all Quarters.
I Remain
Sir
Your very Huble & Much
Obt. Servant
Alexander Kennedy"


" From Mr Sutherland
York Factory 9th June 1806
Sir
At 3 Oclock this evening 4 Canadians arrived here with the inclos'd Note from a Mr Will. McKay (who I understand is put up at the back of the Island) requesting a small supply of Provisions, which out of humanity I feel myself inclin'd to comply with considering his present distrefs. not doubt'g but it will meet with your approbation I have with much difficulty engaged two Indians to carry this to you and shall wait with the utmost anxiety your instructions how to proceed in this seemingly disagreeable businefs - I have time only to remark that the arrival of these strangers seem'd to give a general satisfaction to the Natives and that I have heard that Mr McKay was up set on the steep bank Fall lost every thing - and hmself much hurt.
I Remain
Sir
Respectfully yours
James Sutherland."


" From Mr Sinclair Master at OH
Gordon House 9th June 1806
Dear Sir
I arrived here yesterday morning at 8 AM with 4 Canoes & 44 Bundles of Furs a Feather bag & 6 Bundles of furs are left at Oxford Total amount of trade 2738 MB James Halcro is at Oxford House during my absence he says positively he will not Return back before that he sees the ship - Robt. Wilson & John Norquay stays in the Island Lake all summer - George Linkleter & Gilbert Manson is both unfit for duty - This is Obliged me to Leave the Small Canoe at Gordon House.
I intend to Embark early to morrow morning & I expect to reach Oxford before the barren ground Canoe - Mr Goodwin died on his pafsage down to the Factory Last Summer. - Wishing you a safe & speedy pafsage up the Rivers.
I Remain
Dear Sir
Your Obt. Huble Servt.
Will. Sinclair"


" From Mr Sutherland
York Factory 17th June 1806
Dear Sir
On the Arrival of the Boats the 15th inst. I received your letter and 44 bundles of furs in good condition - due attention shall be payed to your suggestions on the arrival of your son and nothing shall be wanting on my part to facilitate the businefs - if you could pofsibly procure a large Canoe Mr Tate pres.? that one trip would amly suffice, whereas going up with the small one is only losing of time - besides all the danger that consequently attends a small Canoe going by its self - On the 10 inst. Mr Wm McKay and eight Canadians arrived here, he informed me that his sole intention was to reconnoitre River but being up set and losing all their provisions he was under the necefsity of applying at York as you will perceive by his note inclosed in my last which the two Ind. retur'd here with yesterday after being along way on the journey towards you the common feeling of humanity as well as a duty I owe the Company you and myself would not suffer me to let them starve (altho' they are our powerful opponents) therefore I have supply'd them with as much provisions as will carry them back to the crofs Lake for which place they set out on the 12 - having no hesetation in supposing it will meet with your approbation - Old Catakeeshick and Gang has arrived paid his debts and has some to trade Mifsanakeeshick is far short notwithstanding which I think we have got about 1000 B in good Furs since you left this - by an accident Mr Tates large Canoe has got very much broken, consequently there will be another wanted for the fall trip - the jupiter is now sent mann'd with six of the best men I have got and Cargo as pr Invoice - wishing you good News from the interior.
I Remain
Most respectfuly your
James Sutherland
P.S. The weather has been so very cold here that I am doubtful the Gardens will produce nothing."


" From Mr McNab Chief at YF
Gordon House 23rd June 1806
Dear Sir
I received your letter of the 9th & 17th Inst. mentioning the arrival of Canadians at York Fort & their requests - we are directed to treat them with Civility, how far that is merited on their part Mr Fidlers letter will shew it is now sent down.
It is unpleasant to hear the Indians are so well pleas'd to see Canadians among them and may make use dread the Consequences of their settling a station in the Vicinity of York.
I Am
Dear Sir
Yours Sincerely
Jn McNab


" From Mr Cook Master at NRiver
York Factory 26th June 1806
Dear Sir
Your Information respecting Mr McKay I am sorry to inform you is but too justly founded - The mischief arising from such an unwelcome & obtrusive Visit need no detail - It's sufficient to observe that every native with whom he has conversed has been given to understand that he intends to come among them very soon & trade upon a liberal plan far exceeding the present System & such as a free & industrious people deserve. -
It is not necefsary at present to determine the degree of Faith we ought to place on these profefsions - the natural Effect it has on the Indian mind is sufficient for our immediate Observation - & it occurs to me that this is a season peculiarly adapted for that Ardour & Afsiduity which you so stenuously Reccomend & which in my Situation it will be my utmost endeavour to exert.
I Remain
Dear Sir
Your most Obet. Servt.
Will. H. Cook"


" To Mr Fidler Inland Master
Oxford House 13 July 1806
Dear Sir
I have waited here your appointed time now the season is far advanced, businefs becomes urgent on all hands - I have little reluctance on leaving OH when I reflect that you will enter with spirit into any measure that may be judged judicious for the promotion of the Companys Interest Respecting this two stations for occuping present themselves - Viz. Swan river & poplar river - at the former you have resided. - to effect this I have particularized againt such of your men (in List) the wages that Mefs Bird & Sinclair join in thinking fair terms for one year they themselves to Regulate future intentions - These are my wishes if both places cannot be settled we must wait till more men enable us - Mefs Bird & Sinclair will use every endeavour to afsist you in this enterprize and to make businefs go on with more ease and effect. Mr Bird brought a good stock of Pimmecan to OH and proposes sending more on his Arrival at Cumberland that businefs may go at all points with regularity and Unison - Mr Swain I wish to be at Poplar river - both places can receive additional supplies after the ships Arrival, in the mean time no delay should be made in occupying the Stations - Mr Sinclair will afford every necefsary as far as in his power.
I am
Yours &c.
John McNab."


" To Mr Sutherland Inland Master
Oxford House 13th July 1806
Mr Sutherland
I rec'd yours of the 25th May last and have no doubt of your having done all in your power at Green Lake and approve of your attention to Mr Birds directions which you will again be guided by the unjustifiable action perpetrated by Will. Budge is unpleasant but I see no blame attached to you on the occasion.
I approve of your wish for exerting your self now is your time for every endeavour for distinction and I have no doubt of you evincing discernment as well as resolution on all occasions your time of servitude expires in 1807 I wish you pleasant & succefsful winter and am
Yours very Sincerely
John McNab."


" To Mr Kennedy Master at CH
Oxford House 13th July 1806
Mr Kennedy
I rec'd yours of the 7th June last ment'g the power of your Rivals wants of men in such cases must be severely felt your exertions on this occasion are highly commendable - I trust they will be continued and doubt not of their being eventually Rewarded.
If men are this year rec'd from Europe you may expect an addition by the fall Canoes which I hope will enable you to act in every quarter against the Canadians.
It is a pity the Indians are so carelefs about the Swan skins - endeavour to encourage that trade as far as you can.
I observe your requests and shall lay them before the Hon'ble Committee.
I am
Yours very Sincerely
John McNab."


" To Mr Auld Chief at Churchill
York Factory 31st July 1806
Sir
Your letters of March last one the 21st the other not specified were both rec'd with articles mentioned in List.
Why so hard at task necefsary to me alone as to refrain &c. Is it not applicable to all if so we are included in that case. the refraining of both may give eventual pleasure make its effects mutual, and stop in future exposures of our weaknefs from the discerning eyes of those who may consider it more seriously than ourselves.
The payment of packeters I mean to regulate by the importance of their mifsion their dependance at the time on the Factory and their own afsiduity and care of course the mode of payment will vary here, which will be the case with these now sent, who I have no doubt but you will send back with the greatest expedition with the European packet if landed at CR.
I think it unnecefsary to propose to the Committee any gratuitary allowance for Europeans travelling between the Factories the occurrences are so seldom; by their conduct on these rare occasions attention will be guided - you may judge it prudent to act otherwise.
The Account Curr't was sent to shew you that the amount in MB as charged by CR is accounted for at YF I now enclose an account Curr't with the Inland Settlements of both places.
A Mr Will. McKay and 8 men came to the Factory last June he told Mr Sutherland his businefs was to reconnoitre Nelson river the day after his arrival himself & party retu'd Inland.
When all collected our trade will exceed that of last year and now having made two additional posts we are in want of several articles. some of which you say can be spared at CR. if you can afsist us with the others it will highly benefit the Service to affect which I know you have a sincere wish.
I waited till the 13 Inst. at Oxford House for Mr Fidler's arrival - hitherto no news from thence, makes us anxious to hear the reason. The Will. Budge you mention (who was engaged by Mr Tomison) committed a horrid crime last winter the particulars you will learn from your Inland Gentlemen.
I have enclosed a letter for the Capt. of the Ship consigned with YF Cargo should he visit you first - if not to be returned - no news from Severn.
Yours &c
John McNab."


" To Capt. Turner
York Factory 31st July 1806
Sir
The import of this Letter is a supposition that you will Visit CR before York in that case I hope you will give directions that several pipes of Brandy 30 small Roles of Tobacco & a package or two of Twine shall be among the first landed here as they are required for Inland as soon as pofsible.
An early sight of you at York will give much pleasure to
Sir
Your very Huble Servt.
John McNab."


" From Mr Kennedy Master at CH
Cumberland House 12th July 1806
Sir
Mr Fidler arrived here the 10th Inst. from the Northward which affords me an opportunity of sending the last of Cumb'd House Spring packages with two made here since (the contents as pr list enclosed) it may be added to this years account. by cutting off two Gall. Spirits from the remains and adding to expences of the Accounts are not so far forward as prevents it. otherwise it can come to next years acct. with what I may get between this & departure of the Fall Canoe.
Mr Bird informs me of 29 2/3 B which he received from our Ind. on his pafsage down this I hope will more than make up any defficiency that may occur in CH bundles.
Having nothing new to communicate since my last I have only to add that I hope my Conduct and exertions for the Interest of my Employers will be found so as to justify my humble request this year to their Honors & that my endeavours hereafter will always be such as to merit the confidence of my Superiors.
I am
Sir
Your very & most Obt Servt.
Alexander Kennedy"


" From Mr Bird Master at Edmonton
Oxford House 18th July 1806
As Mr Fidler is not yet arrived nothing of course has occurred worth notice since your Departure. I enclose mens Resolves Indent for Fall Canoes and the Indent for next season.
The men are now to get their allowance out of SR Stock which will lefsen it 20 Gal. and make a new Charge to Cumber'd of 160 B or nearly - As I hope to write you fully from CH its unnecefsary to add more at present but wishing you an early sight of the Ship with agreeable news from England.
I Remain
Sir
Your Obt. huble Servt.
James Bird."


" From Mr Sinclair Master at OH
Oxford House 23rd July 1806
Dear Sir
I have been busyly employed since you left this place. Mr Bird embarked the 18 Ultimo for Cumberland with 2 Canoes 5 men in each. the same Day Ja. Halcro for the Island Lake & the 19th I dispatched the 3 Boats with a favourable opportunity the 21st Alex Berston Embarked for the Jack Lake & Geo. Robertson in a small Canoe to stay at the Jack river by himself. I am fearful some accident has hapened to some party or other of the Nd men it is high time they had made their appearance Long before this Thier not arriving has prevented me from going upon the expedition you proposed as I cannot leave this Settlement before I receive some information of them - Wishing a safe arrival to Companys ship wth health & plenty.
I Remain
Dear Sir
Your Obt. Huble Servt.
Will. Sinclair
PS The spare men left here to Convey down the Northward Furs I was doubtful with myself to keep them any Longer waiting as I knowed their duty was required at the factory - I flatter myself my sending them will meet you approbation."


" From Mr Sinclair Master at OH
Oxford House July 24th 1806
Dear Sir
About two hours after I had sealed my Letters of former Date Mr Fidler & his party made their appearance - I was glad of their arrival.
Mr Fidler going down will I hope give you the news from here - our engagements with the men & the Reason why Swan River was not settled. Crofs Lake is in our opinion worth keeping men at & we have taken the Liberty to send a few men their to Check the Canadians from coming Lower down in the Country.
Mr Swain I shall fit out in a Day or two for the poplar River with that afsortment of goods. I can supply - one Canoe & 3 men will proceed to the Crofs Lake these I shall accompany & see them settled in the best place I think will answer to winter in - the few furs I have Collected shall bring down with myself - I suppose before businefs is settled it will be Late in Aug. before I can reach YF.
I Remain
Dear Sir
Your Obt. Huble Servt.
Will. Sinclair."


" From Mr Swain Inland Master
Oxford House 25th July 1806
Dear Sir
I received your kind Letter of the 13th on the 23rd Inst. and as Mr Fidler Embarks to morrow morn'g for York I embrace the opportunity of writing you these few Lines.
In two days time I shall embark for Poplar River at which place you may depend I shall exert myself as much as pofsible for the Company's Interest and the good opinion you have been pleased to form of me I shall do my endeavours to merit - I return you my kind thanks for the Wages you got me for this Contract. and as my time expires next summer. I hope you will solicit the Company in my behalf for 60 £ pr Ann. for 3 yr.
I have left goods at the Isle ala crofs to the amount of 108 MB which I have cutt? of the Remains of Slave Lake to pay my mens Notes for trappings Cooking & Fishing so that the goods the people takes up can be charged to the Isle a la Crofs accounts. - I also send down an account of my trading goods Furs &c. I shall be extremely obliged to Mr McNab if he will be so kind as send me a Table Cloth by the Fall Canoes.
I Remain
Your Obt. huble Servt.
Thomas Swain"


" To Mr Sinclair Master at Oxford House
York Factory 5th August 1806
Dear Sir
Your Letters were rec'd by Mr Fidlers arrival as he thinks Swan River is not worth occuping I mean him to winter at Jack River or Lake as you judge best by his requesting to stay here till the ships arrival it may benifit the Service highly (an object I know you have always at heart) if you stop till you are certain of the number of Canadians and their consequence who are to fix in your quarter during the ensuing winter in this case the more anxiety I shall feel for your early arrival here and unlefs you are determined to go home you will be guided by this efsential point with your usual exactitude and Considerate attention.
This canoe is sent with provisions to further the businefs in the most eligible manner you may Suggest.
I am
Dear Sir
Your very Huble Servt.
John McNab."


" From Mr Gladman Chief at EM
Eastmain Factory 3rd Feb. 1806
Dear Sir
In hopes an opportunity may offer of forwarding this from Albany Factory it may not be unimportant to acquaint you of the transactions in this part of the Bay. - On the 22nd August Capt. John Richards arrived at Charlton Island in a Schooner rigged Vefsel of about 120 Tons named the Beaver fully laden with Goods & provisions on account of the Canada Company, which have from thence been distributed among their several posts round the Bay to the great detriment of the Hudsons Bay Company's trade as their Servants are numerous & at present well supplied. It appears this Vefsel had pafsed through Hudson's Straits before our Companys Ships & had got a large Esquimaux trade.
The trade consigned from this Factory last season amounted to only 5145 MB a sore proof of the depredation of these innovators on the Company's trade. - I have had four out posts to oppose these formidable adversaries but unfortunately we are only 30 in number on the whole establishment & cannot navigate our Vefsels on the Coast for want of Seamen which is also a great detriment.
The Seasons for Provisions have been favorable Winter tolerably moderate & the people in general healthy which is fortunate as our Surgeon was compelled by ill health to return to Europe last Season.
I have made a beginning to build a new Factory as the present one is scarcely habitable but many serious difficulties occur to the undertaking of which the difficulty of procuring timber on this coast is not the least which with the smallnefs of our compliment of men has hitherto much retarded our progrefs.
Accept our united good wishes for your succefs in Trade. We hope you are not yet pester'd with such as our obnoxious intruders with plenty & good health to yourself & all under your command &c
I Remain
Dear Sir
Your very humble Servt.
Geo. Gladman."


" From Mr Thomas Chief at Moose
Moose Factory 25th March 1805
Dear Sir
The acceptable & long look'd for Packet from our Northern Friends reach'd here the 19th Inst why you have not heard from us I must leave to Mr Hodgson to explain as I can only conjecture. I wrote the 10th April last the following are the occurrences.
The Endeavours of our Experienced hands whom I told you in my last had full employ looking out to counteract the designs of our opponents were very succefsful so that the Factory Trade was some what more than the preceeding year & there was an increase of 957 at New Brunswick the total consignment from this Establishment was 6812 1/3 MB The Prince Wales Capt. Hanwell arrived the 5th & landed 6th August. saild again for England from Moose roads the 21st Sept. with Mr Gladman pafsenger from here.
The Canadians our opponents have had their supply this year overland no Vefsel of theirs by sea having made its appearance in these parts. three large Canoes man'd by Iroquois chiefly came down the Abbitibi river and arrived at our opponents settlement on Hazey Island the 13th July the 14th Mr McDougal paid us a visit & communicated some interest'g news the 15th Sunday Mr McDougal with the above three Canoes five persons in Each pafse'd the Factory on their way to their other settlements to the Eastward & the 4th August they returned from Charlton to Hazey again. Mr McTavish had arrived in his Boat from the same place two days before - Mr McDougal & his Iroquois were at Hazey when our ship arrived which I believe accelerated their departure as they went off the same Evening what was the amount of the Furs they collected I could not learn. - the number of our opponents now in the Bay (I am credibly inform'd) are upwards of 40 besides Canadians and they have settlements along the Coast to the East'd at Hannah Bay ruperts River Charlton Island Old Factory River & great river. - Mr Tho. Thomas went over to the Canadians the 2d Oct. & is now in charge of their post on the head of Hazey Island, besides Mr Thomas they have Engaged others of the Hudsons Bay Company's contracted Servants this unprincipled proceeding they say is in retaliation for similar conduct of the Hudsons Bay Company Officers with respect to the NW Company Servt. both at Albany & York.
Nothing particular hath transpired at our Inland posts nor have we heard from any of them since the Fall except New Brunswick from which we have had recent information that the Canadians still continues their Unprincipled practice of Engageing the Hudsons Bay Companys contracted servants. I forward Mr P Goods Letter for your perusal.
All are well at the Factory we had a good Fall hunt of Geese as to Part. Rabbits &c the pursuit of them is obliged to be laid aside our opponents occasions us plenty of Employ to look after the Trade in which we have hitherto been remarkably succefsful. they have men too on the look out but small indeed (I believe) has been their share how they may have succeeded on the Eastmain Coast I cannot say but I fear much better than here.
The Partridges have Universaly been remarkably plentiful a favorable circumsance for our opponents as their stock of Provisions was very slender the Winterers have been deceived in their expectations of a ship or ships which has occasioned much discontent & murmuring among them from the highest to the lowest.
Foxes are so scarce that we have not caught a single one & I have rec'd only one from the Ind.
Am sorry to have to inform you Mr Bolland Chief at Eastmain died of a dropsy the 8th Aug. last - shall be glad to hear all our Friends at the Nd are alive & well &
I Remain
Dear Sir
Your very huble Servt.
John Thomas.
PS Since writing the above a Packet has arrived from abbitibi & Fredrick Houses there with send their Letters for your perusal - Tho. Richards jun. & Meshicket who brot it were stop't by two of our opponents men & plunder'd of 38 MB part of the joint produce of their hunt on their return the next day I paid Mr Thomas a visit with a forlorn hope of recover'g the Furs as T Richards had previously had them in his profsefsion & marked them HB but he refused to give them up found'g his claim to them from the circumstance of the Ind. having them in his pofsefsion & being nearly the amount of the whole in their debt except two or three skunks & Martin Skins which they got from an EM Ind. a son of Boatswain named Qua,coot,avin,ish this is I believe the first furs they have got this Winter - our receipts at the Fort amounts to nearly 1000 Beaver."


" From Mr Thomas Chief at Moose
Moose Factory 13th Jan. 1806
Dear Sir
Mr Hodgson having afforded me an opportunity I embrace it to enquire after our Northern friends & communicate a detail of occurrences since my last of 25th March last - our endeavours for the trade which I told you in my last had been remarkably succefsful continued propitious to our wishes & there was a General encrease in the Consignment from all the places on this establishment - the spring season was remarkably early the river broke 14th April & our boats set off for New Brunswick the 26th - 10th June 3 large Canoes manned by eighteen Iroquois arrived at our opponents House on Hayes Island & 17 of em in 2 Canoes set off the next day for Charlton 18th there was another arrival of one Canoe & 6 Iroquois in which was a Mr Cameron one of the Agents for the NWC - the Dutchman who I believe is called Fredrick Schultz & was our former opponent an infamous character arrived with the first Canoes after staying seven Days at Hazey. Mr Cameron set off for Charlton & returned with Mefs McTavish & Folster the 6th July a few Days after which Mr Thomas was discarded their Service because he did not repair to their Posts at the head of Hazey which had been left open for him at the time stipulated in his Agreement. the large Canoe in which Mr Cameron returned was full of people & 2 other large Canoes that pafs'd next day had about a Doz. in each - on the 12 a Canoe of Iroquois pafsed down the river on their way to Charlton with Mefs Cameron McTavish & Folster & on the 30th we learnt Mr Thomas followed them in a small Canoe with an Eastmain Indian on the 16th Aug. the Hon'ble Companys ships signal was heard & on the 17th Capt. Hanwell Mr G Gladman & Mr Robins landed on the 7th Sept. we had advices from EM that a Schooner named the Beaver of about 120 Tons burthen belonging to NWC & commanded by Capt. Richards had arrived at Charlton Island the 22d Aug where they had Landed a full Cargo of Goods & provisions it seems they were in the Straits earlier than our Ships & got the Esquimaux trade twas reported she sailed for Quebec the 11th Sept that Mr T Thomas took his pafsage in her Mr Cameron had return'd to the head of Hazey on the 8th & set off with 6 Iroquois in the Canoe that brought him the 10th for Montreal by the route of abbitibi river the Furs whatever the amount may be that they had collected was sent off by Canoes by the same route the 9th July - the Honble Companys Ships sailed 15th Sept. with 7553 MB from Moose & 5145 from EM our opponents now consist almost wholly of Orkney Servants landed at Charlton in 1803 tis reported that they are to be discarded this year & their places supplied by Canad. Robt. Folster with ten others are our Opponents on Hazey for account of their proceedings I refer to the enclosed exracts from the Factory Journal four of em also oppose us at Hannah bay as to their numbers & how they have dispersed themselves on the EM coast I cannot ascertain. We had a tolerable good Goose Hunt in the Fall & partridges are plentiful & there are plenty of white foxes run'g about but those that wo'd be employ'd in pursuit of these are otherways occupied for the benefit of the trade in which we have hitherto been very succefsful.
All are well at the Factory as were also those we have heard from at the Inland stations & their prospects of trade are tolerable promising.
Shall be glad to hear of the Health & prosperity of our northern friends to whom Mr RS Robins joins in best Compliments.
I Remain
Dear Sir
Your very humble Servant
John Thomas."


" From Mr Hodgson Chief at Albany
Albany Factory 8th April 1806
Gentlemen
Having received Letters from Moose & Eastmain for the North'd Factories I take the first opportunity to send them by 2 Indians who are willing to undertake the Journey as it is our wish to hear from our friends to the North'd we hope our Letters will find you all enjoying health with every other blefsing.
The bay ship Anchored in Moose Roads the of Aug. and saild from thence again the Sept. with [blank] MB of Trade from Albany and its dependences the Albany Inland Trade decreased 4000 MBeaver last year. - the numerous encroachments of the Canadian Traders on our former posts with Wars and disagreements amongst the Natives caused this decrease. The factory particular Trade was better than 6000 last yeat an increase of 2000 MB so that upon the whole we lost 2000 MB and the Chief part of that was by the deficiency in the Red River Trade.
The winter here has been remarkably propitious. Partridges unnumerable and Foxes much more plentiful than for many years past particularly white of which a considerable number has been killed. - I have been enabled to maintain the Factory this winter allmost solely on the Country produce and such of the Natives as have been in have done well in furs.
It would be very agreeable to us if Mr Thomas could forward these Letters to York immediately that we might have the latest communication. - The Gentlemen at Albany join in Compliments and good wishes with
Gentlemen
Your very Humble Servant
John Hodgson
PS We lost Mr Robert Goodwin last summer who died of the Gout on his Journey down from Osnaburgh also three men Drowned coming down from Henley in a Canoe soon after the Ice broke in the Spring their names were Geo. Holt Don. Flaws & Tho. Sinclair."


" From Mr Tho. McNab
July 28th 1806
Dear Father
I take this opportunity to let you know that we are well in health at present - I went with the Indian man & Tho. Budge with a small Canoe up the river and I saw that no big Canoe could go up so we meet with some Ind. with in two miles distance of the french house and I took them back with me, where we are building some more Indians has been at us but they are very expensive by reason of the French the Indians wanted that I should stop here & build at this Lake - I cannot send any man down to the Factory by reason of building a house - And as for Trading goods - Sir you Know very well what kinds will be required or wanted and I hope you will send me a man to mend the nets and a Taylor Likewise and if you please sir let me know what I am to do in the Spring whether I am to come down or am I to go where you Ordered me to go. - so I add no more at present but remain your Dear
And Loving Son
Tho. McNab."


" From Mr Bird Master at Edmonton
Cumberland House 2nd Aug. 1806
Dear Sir
On my Arrival here the 31st Ult. I had the Satisfaction to find that Mr Sutherland arrived from Acton House two Days before us. They left all well above, tho' at Edmonton Mr Howse & his men were seriously distrefs'd from want of Provisions. There is little addition of Trade from Cumberland, Paint River, Edmonton and Acton Houses but as the Coottanaha's did not arrive at the latter place according to Appointment The Trade from thence is lefs than expected. In my last Note by a momentary Mistake I mentioned to you that the mens Allowance usually given to them at OH would lefsen our Stock of Spirits by 20 Gall. where as, as it must have occurred to you I ought to have said twice this Quantity, When I met Mr Fidler he thought with me that Mr Sinclair had detain'd all the OH Spirits very unecefsarily and that at rate? he could spare part of his Stock I therefore desired him to take the Canoe on which he would meet with the Boats at the white Fall back to fetch it and what he might induce Mr Sinclair to spare. As I cannot foresee how much this Canoe may bring its impofsible for me to know how much the Fall Indent may be lefsened, but for the whole stock of the Season 500 Gallons of Spirits exclusive of the Mens allowance will be necefsary. Hugh Sabbiston is going to endeavour to reach Mr Sinclair by the way of Pine River & Crofs Lake and will of course be able to give accurate Information at Trout River he can return by the same route to Moose Lake where he will find Mr Kennedy whom he now accompanies to this place. John Broughs wishes for 24 £ for three years & stays this year in Expectation.
The Furs and Pimmecan &c are sent as pr Account inclosed. - No Canadians are yet arrived so that I cannot have the pleasure of giving you any English News but I hope the early arrival of the Ship will prevent this from being any Disappointment. Wishing you agreeable News from England.
I Remain Sir
Your hble Servt.
James Bird
It will be necefsary to man Ballendens Canoe well as the Expedition they make will much depend on him. Should no man go home four Canoes with fewer in each would do much better than three as three must be hea'y & unable to go in much Wind thro' the Lakes I hope you not be under the necefsity of giving Mal. Sinclair more wages than you offered him already. If there should be a Taylor or two he will be very requisite as we have two for six Houses. Be kind enough Sir to excuse these crowded Lines as I forgot to take a bit of Paper from OH with me & have not any here. James Sandison tells me that the Elbow or upper part of Swan River was abandon'd by the Indians account, the spring of 1805."


" From Mr Sutherland
Cumberland House 2nd August 1806
Sir
By the arrival of Mr Bird on the 23 Ult. I received your letter and was happy to understand that my conduct met with your approbation but I am sorry to say that the Expedition I was sent on this summer has not proved effectual for I was ordered to be at this place by the 1st Inst. consequently to fulfill that order I was oblidged to leave the Mountain House before the arrival of the Indians. The cause as I suppose of their not arriving at the time Expeceted was owing to the depth of snow that was in the mountain for to appearances it was a considerable depth, when I left that place on the 12th of July - I presume that Mr Bird has wrote for everything necefsary for this place for the ensuing winter neverthelefs I cannot help Mentioning that a considerable Quantity of fine & Coarse Twine will be necefsary as we cannot subsist without it.
I have wrote to Mr Lean for this three years back for several necefsaries which I expected yearly and have been disappointed for I never heard Whether it was sent or not should be very much favor'd if you would be pleased to let me know from the Invoice of mens parcels whether any thing was shipped for me or not at the Hudsons bay house for the last 2 years and also this, also would be very much favour'd if you would allow Mr Sinclair to open any box for me should any com so as he may be able to send me a loaf of sugar by some of the men, for daresay the canoes will be so loaded that I cannot expect the Whole box. It appears strange to me that my servitude does not Expire Untill next year as by my Calculation it expired this.
Sir
Your Most Obt. Huble Servt.
Ja. Sutherland."


" From Mr Kennedy Master at Cumberland
Cumberland House 2nd Aug. 1806
Sir
By the arrival of Mr Bird here the 31st Ult. I received your Letter which gave me pleasure to think my endeavours last winter gave satisfaction. It ever will be my highest ambition to merit the praise of my Superiors.
As Mr Bird informs me I am to winter at House Lake which I am just on the eve of depart'g for. I will be much obliged if you will permit a small parcel to come up for me in the Fall should it come out. I will write to Mr Sinclair to forward it with your permifsion I have pafsed a very quiet and pleasant Summer here but owing to the great flush of water all over the Ind. have not done so much in the way of hunting as they might under more favourable circumstances every River & creek being over flowed the Beaver and other animals of the fur kind have forsaken their former Haunts and taken to the Swamps & Grafs which renders it difficult to hunt them.
The whole amount got here during the Summer (including the 99 B by Mr Fidler) is 419 3/4 + 12 = 431 3/4 which will come to Cumberland House Acct. of next year. A list of the Furs is sent herewith - Wishing you a pleasant sight of the Ship.
I remain Sir
Your Most Obed. Huble Servt.
Alexander Kennedy"


" To Mr Bird Master at Edmonton
York Factory 27th August 1806
Dear Sir
I rec'd your Letter of the 31st Ult. with pleasure to hear of your safe arrival at Cumber'd. I hope Mr Howse and mens wants were soon Relieved Mr Fidler tells me he added to your supplies from OH and I hope what is now sent will effectually supply your wants. In consultation with Mr Auld we judged the exploring of the Route to A through Deer Lake an object worthy of the greatest attention Mr Fidler for that intent now goes to CH from whence early next Spring with 3 men he is to proceed and Mr Auld promises to have men waiting his arrival near the Frog portage to act as guides.
During his stay at Cumberland Mr Sutherland will of Course be guided by him and if an add'l post from thence against the Canad. is judged necefsary he will be ready for action. Scarcity of canoes prevents sending more than 3 men are plenty - John Dearon is sent to afsist John Park in building Canoes our Carpent. died last month we shall be in want of H? Hay - Dearon is a good joiner if your require that duty no Taylors are rec'd or you should have had one I propose Mr Swain and a party to occupy swan River next Summer if you can send 2 men with horses to old Swan River House.
I am
Yours &c
John McNab."


" To Mr Kennedy Master at Cumberland
York Factory 27th August 1806
Mr Kennedy
I rec'd your Letter of the 2d Inst. your readinefs to act spiritedly on every Occasion shews the active officer and is to me very satisfactory as much private property as can be conveyed after the Articles Required by Mr Bird is on board; shall be sent.
the furs are rec'd safe - I wish you a succefsful winter at Moose Lake. I have desired Mr Sinclair to from a Communication with you during the winter if pofsible.
I am
Yours very sincerely
John McNab."


" To Mr Howse
York Factory 27th August 1806
Sir
I rec'd your Letter of the 14th July 1806. I have Rec'd no order from the Committee to vary your Annual salary since my Arrival here.
I have mentioned your desire to stay 3 years longer and represented to the Committee your Arduous zeal and active Services and trust their Honors will attend thereto.
I am
Yours very Sincerely
John McNab."


" To Mr Sutherland
York Factory 27th August 1806
Mr Sutherland
I rec'd yours Letter of the 2d aug. your exertions during the Summer it is a pity the Ind. did not arrive at the Mountain House before you came down Mr Bird hoped for a number of Beaver Skins from there - Every thing that came to you or any Gent. have always been carefully sent - now you must wait till next Summer.

Mr Fidler will deliver you this during his stay at C House you will be guided by him and when he leaves you next Summer give every afsistance in your power.
I am your Sincere friend
John McNab."


" To Mefs Hodgson Thomas & Gladman
York Factory 30 August 1806
Gentlemen
Your Several Letters dated Alb'y Factory the 8th Apr. 1806 Moose Fort the 25 March 1805 and 13th Jan. 1806 also Eastmain 3d Feb. 1806 were duely Rec'd by the Beaver Brig the 17th Inst.
Last year we added 7000 more than the returns of the preceeding and this more than last a Mr McKay & 8 Canadians came down Nelson River and arrived here the 7th of June last they staid one night and next day set out expeditiously for Inland I was then on my way to OH he told Mr Sutherland he came purposely to explore Port Nelson River and its entrance.
It is unpleasant to hear of the power and succefs of these Rivals down the Bay at Eastmain particularly and makes us dread the effects of their coming near this settlement as some years the Home Ind. procure in the fall as much Venison as Serve during winter which makes them independent of the Factory.
Last winter Game of all kinds was also plentiful here which I was glad to hear was the case down the Bay our supplies during summer has been lefs than usual.
Capt. Turner in the King George arrived the 18th Inst. after being at CR he is now nearly ready for sea. - We shall send home 1000 more than last year CR is also increased.
I am
Gentlemen
Your very Huble Servt.
John McNab."



B.239/b/73

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