" To Mefs Hodgson Thomas & Gladman
York Factory 3rd Jan. 1807
Gentlemen
A Conveyance? to SR gives me the pleasure of furthering this so far to you.
Since my last of the 30th Aug. on which day the Ship sailed for England & Brig for Severn Occurrences have happened here as follows.
Our Several Inland parties set out early for their winter destinations hitherto have had no news from either which makes us believe few Canadians are among them.
The fall was fine and winter hitherto has been uncommonly mild. Venison and partridges scarcer than last year. Rabbits and fish plenty Guns and traps lefs production than last winter. the few Indians who have been in have done well.
On the 21st Dec. Mr James Sutherland died - he had been previously a few weeks Confined with the Gout, but found himself so well on the 20th as come up to dinner a few hours after he went down was affected internally with a Severe fit (he had suffered two Similar attacks before) which with Resignation and fortitude he bore till 6 next morn'g perfect'y Sensible to the last.
Seldom has the Service lost an Officer so attentive and so Vigilant in his station perhaps never one more so for its good and for its promotion.
My mefsmates join in wishing yourself and Gentlemen the Comp. of the season.
I am
Dear Sir
Yours &c
John McNab."


" To Mr Thomas Chief at Severn
York Factory 23rd Jan. 1807
Dear Sir
As the time of expecting a packet or Visitants from CR is expired I send this to you for the Regulation of Acct. between us and Requesting by the bearers the Articles as particularized in List now sent.
The fall was fine and winter hitherto has been uncommonly mild Venison and partridges Scarcer than last year Rabbits and fish plenty - Guns and traps lefs productive than last wnter the few Ind. who have been in have done well.
I am sorry to inform you of the Death of Mr Ja. Sutherland on the 21st Dec. last. he has been previously a few weeks confined with the Gout but found himself so well on the 20th as come up to dinner a few hours after he went down was affected internally with a Severe fit (he had suffered two Similar attacks before) which with Resignation and fortitude he bore till 6 next morn'g perfect'y Sensible to the last. you know his merits have long been exemplary at York and how little Reason a Chief had to care for Factory duties Since his appointment to the Station he held.
Seldom has the Service lost an officer so attentive and so Vigilant in his Station perhaps never one more so for its good and for its promotion.
Mr Taylor will judge how far this lofs will affect Nautical duties at York that he himself may have to depend upon as Beacons & Bouys the Single man in that Line here is young and unsteady if Mr Taylor thinks afsistance necefsary from you I have no doubt of your concurrence in his Sentiments on occasion so unexpected and so important.
Two of your Ind. came here two days ago for a few necefsaries left their families at Cascatamogan Seepe and now Return with these men.
My Mefsmates join in wishing yourself and Gentlemen the Compliments of the Season.
I am
Dear Sir
Your Most Obt. huble Servt.
John McNab."


" From Mr Swain Inland Master
Jack River Sept. 29th 1806
Dear Sir
In hopes of a packet going down from OH during the ensuing winter. I embrace the opportunity of writing you a few lines to let you know what opponents we have in this Quarter. there is only 2 Canoes come on this side of Lake Winnipegg one of which with 5 men and a Master winters at this place and the other one is gone to Crofs Lake where there is only 6 men besides the Master so that I do not think they will be able to hurt the Trade of North River in the least and as for this place I shall do my utmost to prevent them from seeing a single Indian if pofsible - Horney & his family came down from Jack Lake to this place and the french pillaged him of two Geese which was all that he had and George Robertson prevented him from going to their House and I am sorry to say that he had some difficulty to get him to consent to return to Jack Lake again, as he told him Donald Sutherland was so near with them that they could not stay with him and the consequence is that the Indians was all coming down here.- but when he was informed of another person to go their in his place he consented to return back again and he left this place without the Canadians knowing when or where he is gone and if he meets the other Indians coming down he is to stop them. - I intend to send Don. Sutherland down to this place to winter as the Indians and him cannot agree and Geo. Robertson I intend to take with me in his place which I hope will meet your approbation. the following is a list of Articles I hope you will be so good as send up the next Summer - 6 pr of Hooks & Hinges, 2 Picks, 1 Crofs Cutt saw - 2 Locks and a few 10d Nails for Swan River.
The French are again at the Poplar River this winter & opposed at that place by a Mr Thomas from Albany who has built there this fall. - and if pofsible I shall take a look that way in the Winter they had abandoned that place last Summer and was at a place they called the Rice Lake which they have since abandoned built again at the place Mr Will. McKay who was at York last Summer has not come back here again and the Master of this and Crofs Lake are only Clerks to the NWC. - so there is no proprietor in this Quarter.
I Remain
Sir
Your Obedt. huble Servt.
Thomas Swain
PS Please to give my Compliments to the Gentlemen of York."


" From Mr Sinclair Inland Master
Oxford House 6th Feb. 1807
Dear Sir
Judging it would be satisfactory to you to hear how Businefs is going on in this quarter these men is sent that they might reach York by the time you mentioned in your Last note by Metunnishk?
Our pafsage up the Lower rivers in the fall was Tedious the water being so remarkable low in Hill river made many more carrying places then ever I saw carried at before the shallownefs of the water has altered our Fishing from former seasons we have not caught above our half of what we did Last year.
Upon my arrival here I sent the few natives belonging to this House to a place called the Gods Lake and 4 men to stay & winter by them with an afsortment of goods to prevent them from coming here for a supply in case the Canadians should arrive as they said they would Last Summer. but it is pleasing to me to Inform you that they did not arrive with that number of men & canoes that Mr McKay boasted he would bring in this Low country the men Stationed at Jack River & Crofs Lake has answered the purpose Intended it has kept the Canadians from coming down there & also from proceeding lower down Nelson river. I sent Letters to Island Lake House the first of January I have received no answer as yet when I last Heard from Crofs Lake they were doing very little in the way of Trade I cannot at present Inform or say what the Trade may be the few skins they do bring is Good there is no cats in this Quarter this is a great Lofs for since my Residence at Oxford House in one season I have had 1400 MB in them only I have not seen an Indian that can give any reason for their Deserting the Ground it is now 6 years since they were plentiful.
The Indian whom intrusted to my care is staying by me as yet I am in hopes to be able to give a good account of him in the spring he was times Rigged by Mr McKay last winter & at least Drank 20 Gallons of their High Spirit this account I had from the French Trader.
Wishing you health & plenty with every other felicity.
I Remain
Dear Sir
Your Ob. Huble Servt.
Will. Sinclair"


" From Mr Thomas Chief at Severn
Severn Factory Feb. 9th 1807
Dear Sir
On the 3rd Inst. I receiv'd yours & am very sorry that it is not in my power to supply you with all the Articles mentioned I have sent such as could be spar'd.
I was shocked at hearing of Mr Sutherland Decease I regret the want the Service will feel in the lofs of so active an Officer and lament his death as an honest upright man who must have been dear to all those who formed the circle of his Friends.
I have consulted Mr Taylor with regard to Buoys & Beacons his Opinion is that Jos. Hall is fully equal to that businefs as he has been employ'd in it several years & has besides a perfect knowledge of the river.
The Fall here also was uncommonly mild Rabbits & Fish have been lefs scarce than heretofore but I am sorry to say that trapping has been lefs productive than usual and the few Ind. who have arrived have brought very little.
My Mefsmates join in Comp. & best wishes to yourself and Gentlemen at York with
Dear Sir
Your very huble Servt.
Thomas Thomas
PS Mr Taylor begs that the buoys at the Point of stones may be set as it will save him a Tide."


" To Mr Auld Chief Churchill
York Factory 26th Feb. 1807
Dear Sir
Hopes of hearing from Churchill as you proposed last August has deferred sending from York till now the intention of this is to know if we may send for the articles you obligingly offered to afsist us with and whether to the Factory or to the spot you mentioned lodging them at if you can add to them the articles specified in list enclosed the obligation would be enhanced and the Service benefited.
You will receive the Severn news from the letters now received from thence the Winter in general has been uncommonly mild - fish and Game plentiful hitherto Venison little few Ind. have been in most of them have done well.
On the 21st Dec last Mr Ja. Sutherland died you know his Official character seldom has the Service lost an Officer so attentive and so Vigilant in his Station perhaps never one more so for its good and its promotion.
From Mr Cook & letters from OH I hear the Canadians are lefs powerful than dreaded at both places pleasing intelligence.
I shall be happy if Mr Fidler accomplishes his enterprise in good time and trust you will send him here as soon as businefs will admit.
It will give pleasure to hear yourself and all at CR are well my Mefsmates join in best Compliments to you and Gentlemen.
I am
Dear Sir
Your very huble Servt.
John McNab
PS Not being certain how many pipes of Brandy of YF Invoice was rec'd at CR will be obliged to you to send the Acct. current between the two Factories likewise how you propose entering them in your Account Book. The average Contents of the pipes is 112 Gallons according to Invoice.
The enlarge Indents from SR and YF makes us believe that two Vefsels will be consigned for the Northward settlements of course shall send no packets? in Summer as for years past should we be deceived we trust to your Consideration."


' To Mr Swain Inland Master
York Factory 27th Feb. 1807
Dear Mr Swain
I rec'd your letter dated 29th Sept. 1806 with satisfaction to hear you have so few opponents & have no Doubt but your prudence & exertion will make their endeavours little interesting.
The distance from Albany to Poplar River being so much greater than from here shews theirs spirited measures - I have wrote the Chief there my intention of having men & goods there early next Summer if pofsible you will forward the letter & if you can proceed yourself and tell Mr Thomas so it will be desireable if he has any goods Remaining & he thinks it necefsary to carry them so far back - you could appoint accordingly for their retention.
I trust your rout to Swan River will be early commenced and have every Confidence of your attention & Conduct on the occasion and shall be happy in making you sensible of the consequences of my Approbation.
I am
Dear Sir
Your very huble Servt.
John McNab."


" To Mr Sinclair Inland Master
York Factory 27th Feb. 1807?
Dear Sir
The receipt of your letter of the 6rth inst. mentioning the transactions at OH and the arrangements you have formed is very satisfactory - the small number of Canadians in your Vicinity is pleasing news.
I am sorry to inform you of the death of Mr Ja. Sutherland you have long known his official merit - Seldom has the service lost an Officer so attentive and so vigilant in his Station perhaps never one more so for its good & its promotion.
If the scarcity included Cats only the consequence would perhaps be little felt are not bears far lefs plentiful - whether these wants proceed from increased exertion & succefs of the Hunters or local lefsened recruits from nature it may be difficult for us as well as the Indians to say.
Few Indians have been in during the Winter some have done well others lefs than last year. I am glad the Canadian leader is doing well. I hope you will keep him at OH as I do not wish his Return here.
I shall expect to see you early in the Spring. Mr Cook (who was here a few Weeks ago) is to be at the Factory by the 1st June, if you could come also at or before that date without deranging any of your plans I should be glad, if not shall expect to see you at Gordon House by the 10th June at farthest.
I am
Dear Sir
Your very huble Servt.
John McNab
PS I shall be glad if Thomas deserves the confidence you have in him to me he is a stranger - his performances this winter will point out how far your opinion is well founded - I directed him if he could procure a guide to proceed to Lake Winnepeg by the interior rout unknown to us and come down by OH to meet me at Gordon House next June."


" To Mr Thomas Inland Master from AR
York Factory 27th Feb. 1807
Sir
I am informed by Mr Swain of your residence at Poplar River he was sent there with men & goods last Aug. seeing no Ind. and hearing vague Reports of the Canadians relinquishing the spot he brought all back and is now a near neighbour of yours.
If from your succefs the place is worthy of pofsefsion I mean to have a party there next Summer before you can reach Osnaburgh.
In case you have any Remains of goods & wish to leave them rather than hinder your Journey out I have ment'd to the Chief at Abany that Mr Swain will take charge thereof - a list of the amount signed by you both to be sent to him and the Chief at York.
I Remain
Sir
Your very huble Servt.
John McNab


" To Mr Hodgson Chief Albany
York Factory 27th Feb. 1807
Dear Sir
I have receiv'd information from Mr Swain of your forming a station at Poplar River last Fall. that Gentlemen who is Wintering a short distance in the interior thereof was himself appointed to winter where your party now are he landed there with 2 Canoes cargoes last Aug. seeing no signs of Ind. & hearing vague Reports of the Canadians having left that station he thought his service would be better employed else where and returned with his men and goods I shall be glad to hear you will experience his opinion & reports were ill founded.
By this event I shall be guided next year you will see with me the impropriety of our striving against each other or of your sending so far to a spot we can reach in few lefs days than you can weeks. - In case your Officer may choose to leave his Remains of Goods instead of carrying them so far back. I have directed Mr Swain to take care of them accordingly.
Mr Swain is to proceed to Swan river early next Summer preparatory to his wintering there from Cumberland I hear you have relinquished the Elbow if so he is to occupy that station also.
I Remain
Dear Sir
Yours &c
John McNab."


" To Mr Bird Master Inland
York Factory 27th Feb. 1806
Dear Sir
A packet for OH favors me with the consequence of this
I till? mean to forward the goods to the Rock if the water will admit the boats proceedure as the expenditure of provisions and usage of Canoes will be materially lefsened thereby.
I shall expect to see you there as early as last year and to find you are in good health and hear you have had a succefsful winter will be peculiarly pleasing.
Before you receive this you will hear of the Death of Mr Ja.Sutherland you have long known his Official merits seldom has the Service lost an Officer so attentive and so Vigilant in his station perhaps never one more so for its good and its promotion.
I am
Your Most huble Servt.
John McNab."


" From Mr Auld Chief Churchill
Churchill Factory 11th March 1807
Dear Sir
Your favour dated 26 Ult. I received on the 8th inst. I should have had a communication with you earlier in the winter but no Indians arrived here in time. I certainly mean to perform my intentions of supplying you with the articles I promised and will add to them such Articles as you have now requested as you will see by the enclosed List. If I could pofsibly know when your people would be about Cape Churchill I should send to meet them but as the distance is but small expect they will come on to this Factory. In order to serve them I send a paper of directions which perhaps will be acceptable.
The season here has also been unusually mild the very extraordinary and unsettled state of our River has hindered us from reaping any supply from it we have only angled 8 Pike since August, in the fall before the frost set in our lately discovered fishing place was productive of exquisite fish in abundance but after a search of 2 or 3 days I could not find any deep place where they might be obtained in Winter which is an uncalculable lofs to us. No Deer, but Partridges in abundance. Only one family of Indians have been in pretty well off with furs but I hear very bad accounts of others who are ashamed to set their faces this way till they try their Spring Luck altho I understand they are starving.
I join in your regrets for the lofs of poor Sutherland who was a valuable Officer how much more must his little babes bewail their fate. I trust he has secured for them his property, this the kind Offices of the friends of the deceased and the generous benevolence of the Honble Committee to the offspring of their Servants so affectingly manifested lately will go far in wiping the tears from their eyes.
I am pleased to hear that your Inland stations are not violently opposed by the Canadians. I wish I may be able to say so too. You may rely on Mr Fidler being accommodated with every facility in returning to his station. I have sent him the necefsary afsistance and have given directions to Mefs Tomison & Spence to forward the expedition planned by us when at YF last August.
We are all thank God pretty well in health at present and enjoy a tolerable share of the few good things which accidentally find their way into this devoted clime.
I only got 1 pipe of YF Brandy from Capt. Turner to replace a part of that I supplied you the preceeding year but I got 2 from SF in lieu of an equivalent in Spirits of wine which I sent them as it was not to be expected that you could supply them last ship time along with this you'll receive our Acct. Current to which I take the liberty to add a sum of goods amounting to 30 MB which I supplied a very miserable wretch who belongs to YF but who had twice come here for the purpose of being entertained here which I refused.
I am of opinion the Committee will wait they find their returns in furrs be larger than before they venture again on a third Vefsel. They can easily change the destination of the two Ships. They Prince will supply the Northward and the George will be able to carry a sufficient supply to the Southern Settlements, so you had better send a packet as usual without the female afsociate.
I must now inform you that it is my determination to restablish Isle a la crofs and one or two more posts in its vicinity. It will at all times be proper to have a station there were it for no other use than a depot for the Athapuscow Countries this leads me to request a particular mannar your directions to Mr Bird or the Gentlemen Inland to procure a quantity of Pemecan for us again as before.
I am given to understand that this spring I shall be visited by the Eskimaux they I hope will fill all my empty pipes. I am to request you will put all empty ones on board the Severn Brig for the purpose of being brought round here in the following Summer.
We offer to yourself and to the Gentlemen of your mefs the usual compliments of the Country with great sincerity and I remain
Dear Sir
Your Most Obed. Servt.
William Auld."


" From Mr Swain Inland Master
Jack Lake 18th Feb. 1807
As I have been under the necefsity of sending to Oxford House for some articles of Trading Goods which I was short off. I embrace the opportunity of writing you these few lines in request of the enclosed list of Stores &c for Swan River department so that they may be got from the Factory as early as pofsible. As there must be two houses in that quarter one at Swan and the other acrofs land at the red River it will be very requisite I should have some person to put in Charge of one of them and if Hugh Sabbeston can be spared. I think he will be a very fitt person to winter at Swan River, has he can speak the bungee Language. - and there is allways some of those Natives in that Quarter and the furs they kill are generally of good quality. I shall make all the dispatch pofsible in the spring and I dare say shall see you at the lower end of Hill River between the 1st & 5 of July the trade of this place will be better than last year I have at present between six and seven hundred MB. - and I hope the Ind. will make a good spring hunt. I had some difficulty in getting clear of the Canadians at Jack river last fall. - and they have not found us out as yet and I do not think they will. I have also heard from the Ind. that the Canadians have abandoned the Island Lake. As for the Lower settlement in poplar River it is abandoned by the french and have settled at place they call the Rice Lake which is a good distance up the poplar river and the Albany people oppose them at that place this information I got from two of my Indians who saw some of the Indians of that quarter and gave them a Letter from me to the master of that place which I have sent you a Copy off. If there should be a Carpenter to go Inland next summer as if Mr Bird can conveniently spare one of those he has I would be very glad of him to afsist in building a House at Swan river.
I Remain
Sir
Your Obed. humble Servt.
Thomas Swain."


" From Mr McNab Chief York Factory
Gordon House June 11th 1807
Dear Sir
You will see from the enclosed (which with your own after sealing you will forward to CR) that as soon as you jude they can navigate the Coast you will despatch a Boat with the Articles requested by Mr Auld that the necefsaries he offers York may be Rec'd as soon as pofsible.
I shall be glad to hear the several Canoes I met going to the Factory has brought you good Cargoes and that Mr Tate and party have been succefsful I wish Tho. McNab to come here by the first Craft he can steer one of them up we are hourly expecting Inland news.
I know your attention and vigilance leaves no Room for anxity to me concerning the various duties necefsary to be carried on at the Factory during your presidency there and am
Dear Sir
Your very humble Servt.
John McNab."


" From Mr Pruden Inland Master
Rockey Mountain July 12th 1806
Sir
As Mr Sutherland sets off this morning for Cumberland gives me an opportunity of informing you that the Cootaney that were expected to arrive here this Summer have not arrived yet & I am apt to think now they will not arrive till the fall. Indeed I have scarcely seen an Indian since the departure of the Canoes the few Skins I have Collected I have sent packed in too small Bundles which I hope you will Credit to my next years Account.
If the Company should consider the wages I wrote to them for my present Contract I shall leave my Resolves for my next Contract to their Honors Generosity if otherwise I hope they will give me liberty to return for a year.
I have pafsed a very unpleasant summer so far having lived on the leanest meat without a morsel of fat and some time two days at a time without eating a morsel of any thing & not even able to take a dish of Tea the whole summer wishing for better times I must conclude and Remain Sir
Your Most Obed. & huble Servt.
John Peter Pruden."


" From Mr Bird Master Inland
Edmonton Dec. 23rd 1806
Sir
As the new settlements of Moose & crofs Lakes seem to afford an easy Communication with York I am induced to hope that you may receive this before the Rivers open and tho' I can inform you of little that will give present Satisfaction I may probably prevent future Disappointments. Besides, had you partaken of our Apprehensions from the Month of August to the latter end of September, an Account of our present safety would not fail to be sufficiently interesting. I am sorry then Sir to say that a Quarrel took place in the latter end of July last between the Blackfeet supported by the Blood Indians and the Southward Indians afsisted by the Stone Indians, each party consisting of about four hundred Men. A Battle was fought in which twenty eight of the former and three of the latter are said to have fallen, the Southward Indians were ultimately forced to a precipitate retreat with the lofs of part of their Horses and Baggage and dispersing in all Quarters to conceal themselves in the Woods leaving their Enemies Masters of the plains from South Branch to Acton house. - This news we met a little above Hudson house and a strong probability of our being attacked on the way up was resented to us, or the destruction of all the Settlements to be considered as certain. The latter, knowing the Blackfeets eagernefs for indiscriminate Vengeance, I feard, we however arrived in safety at Paint River and Edmonton Houses and had the pleasure to find all safe and well. One alarm we met with by the way occasion'd by the Men of a French Canoe which had ventured to preceed us several days, near the Elbow of the River we met these, returning with the utmost hurry & dismay they told us they had met about three hundred Indians (Blackfeet of course) who had killed one of their Companions as he was riding along shore, and given long chase to them. Without giving full Credit to the story we proceeded with caution and in a few Days had the satisfaction to arrive at eighty tents of Stone Indians from whom we received a very seasonable supply of provisions and discovered that these had unwillingly been the cause of the flight of the Canadians. Their abandoned Companion we found a few days after. - At Edmonton I found an Indian lately arrived from whom I had the Mortification to learn that his with three other families amounting in all to twenty five souls were a few days since surprized by the Blackfeet and totally destroy'd about an hundred Miles from this as they were returning from the plains ignorant of the late Quarrel, he told us also that eighty of the Enemy had set off for Acton House and he thought with hostile Designs. Prevailing on this man to venture himself as Guide I immediately dispatched two men with him on Horseback and at the end of nine Days my anxieties were terminated by the receipt of Letters from Mr Pruden. the Blackfeet had already visited him and with very suspicious appearances but however traded the few Articles that they brought of little Value which Mr Pruden dared not refuse and returned with the utmost speed to their Tents. Since this we have had no certain intelligence of them so that it is doubtful if they will visit the Houses this season and should this be really the case few Wolves & Kitts can be expected. Of other furs I hope we shall be able to procure nearly as last year, indeed were beaver to found we might expect some increase but none are now to be discovered within reach of us. We propose endeavouring in the spring afsisted by their Fears to prevail on the Indians of this place to pafs next season in the Rocky Mountain were some Beaver have been lately discovered and if we succeed to make a settlement there for them but large Animals are there so scarce & the Country so rugged that I have little hope of their compliance.

Besides the effects this Rupture among the Indians may have on the Trade it will prevent our getting near the usual supply of Pimmeecan for the summer and has already occasioned the greatest difficulties in getting present subsistence, at this time we live principally on fish which are brought about Sixty Miles.
The Coottanas visited Acton House as expected but brought only eighty Beaver Skins. Mr David Thompson is making preparations for another attempt to crofs the Mountains pafs through their Country and follow the Columbia River to the sea. He is to have eight Men with him and the object of this enterprize is said to be to as certain positively whether a Trade can be formed with that Country valuable enough to be worth pursuing thro' the difficulties with which it must be attended and if it should the uniting of the Commerce of the two seas. - A party of Americans were seen last Summer where the Mifsifsoury enters the Rocky Mountain and tis reported by the Muddy or Mifsfsoury River Indians, that four of them set off with an intention to come here but that they killed one and the rest return'd.
Your Orders respecting Swan River shall punctually attended to and I think Mr Swain may rely on finding ? Gaddy there by the time appointed. Several of the Indians are retreating towards that Quarter and will probably pafs the next winter there, they are however in general an idle set and kill nothing but Wolves.
Mr Fidler shall be supplied with every requisite for his intended Expedition. - I have had some trouble in detaining Will. Walker in the Service owing to his receiving no reply to his request of 1804 as Mr Howse could not do well without him I ventured to promise him 18 £ in case the Honble Company should ultimately refuse to give him twenty which he requested & still wishes to be again represented to them.
I had almost forgot to tell you that we received our Letters on the first of November, the Canoes were stopt by the Ice about thirty Miles below Paint River but every thing fetched safe to that place. I have now given you the principal News of this place and insensibly drawn my Letter to a length which you will think tedious, therefore conclude subscribe myself.
Sir
Your Obedt. humble Servt.
James Bird."


" From Mr Sutherland Inland Master
Cumberland House Jan. 15th 1807
Sir
By the arrival of the fall canoes I was favoured with your letter of last fall. Your Order respecting Mr Fidler is Compied with and I feel a particular satisfaction in being guided by his well directed Conduct and whatever he may point out shall be performed with pleasure on my part.
I am very much oblidged for your trouble and attention as also Information concerning my little Indents from Briton.
As Mr Fidler has given all the news and particulars concerning the businefs their is no part I can select without making a repetition of what he has wrote.
Sir
Your Most Obdt huble Servt.
James Sutherland"


" From Mr Fidler Inland Master
Cumberland House 16th Jan. 1807
Dear Sir
Mr Kennedy arrived here 3 days ago from Moose Lake and returns back there tomorrow gives me this opportunity of writing as there will be a communication from him to the Crofs Lake & from thence to Oxford House.
We arrived here 3rd October & found all well two Day after we sent away two Canoes for Mr Bird and one to Mr Howse who winters in the South Branch we had Letters from the Latter the Middle of last month who says that there is little prospects of Trade and that he fears also that Pemmican will be scarce for the summer on my arrival here most of the Indians belonging to this place had been fitted out for theirs winters Hunts & men sent along with the greater part - about 18 days ago we had word from the half of them and I am very sorry to say that all their hunts will not amount to 70 MB Indeed they are doing scarcely any thing and the Bungees who usually Trade at the French house are little better and unlefs they hunt much better than they have hitherto done the poorest trade will be got here than has been some years past. the Muskrats that has been so very numerous here of late is not now to be seen eiher the remarkably high water that has Overflowed the Country this summer has either drownded or swept them all away that very few is to be seen.

No news by Letters from Mr Bird - Canadians coming down from Edmonton House in the fall say that MB'd had the ill luck to get nearly 20 Horses stolen from him as he went. but that Mr Howse has since got the greater part back again - a report was current here early in the Fall that some of the Slave Ind. had killed Mr Bird & 2 men on their Journey up I am glad to tell you that latter reports much more to be relied entirely contradict the former but that he had arrived safe above without meeting with any ill treatment from the Natives except stealng the Horses a little while after Mr Sutherland left the Rocky Mountain house a pretty large band of Cootanay Indians came into the house & brought with them 14 Packs of Beaver & that we got not a single Skin - nor indeed would the Canadians let one go to see our people - 3 Canadians had been the whole winter along with them which was I suppose the cause of none going into our houses. Indeed I don't think we shall ever make any thing from them nor will the Canadians long as the Slave Indians will be jealous of their procuring goods themselves - without their profiting something by them - which cannot be the case long as they are permitted by them to visit the Houses. - Report also says that a band of Blackfeet in returning from Trading at the houses met with three Tents of Southern Indians & Mafsacred every one of them - should this story prove true I doubt little trade can be expected from the Blackfeet this Winter - as they will be too much afraid to risk themselves amongst the Southern Indians. There is no account of the Fall Indians visiting the to trade - altho I beleive they have made peace with the Muddy River Ind. this Summer for permifsion to trade with Europeans. - our fishing here has been very fortunate - had the Ind. have hunted well thing have gone on very agreeably but what can be done when they will not hunt. Indeed there is not much to be got here since the rats are all gone, - The weather has been the Mildest ever known here - ever since the commencement of this year the Thermometer has never been so low the Cypher & frequently at 36 with little Snow; & that fell at once in the fall. - No Letter sent in answer to mine from the agent of the NWC - Mr ? told our people when he pafsed that the 500 MB would be paid I should wish to find his words realized next summer - the Candian proprietors say that they have given up all thought of their coming into Hudsons Bay - Huzza. - There is about 25 hunters this winter at the Moose Lake but as the Country is so very poor all about there, it is a pitty but they could be prevailed on to go into the Low Country - where something might be expected from them - this Last summer two small Companies from Canada came up with good to the grand Portage one party sold every thing to the NWC & the other in 3 Canoes proceeded on ward for either the Red or Saskatchewan river but the Old Co. men falled numbers of Trees & stopped up the Traks on the Portages & threw every obtacle in their way they pofsibly could & at last before they reached even the Rainy Lake they was starving of hungar & was under the painful necefsity of returning back again with all expedition with empty Canoes to the grand Portage leave all there goods to the mercy of the Old Company not a single person remaining with it - we shall embark from this at appointed time & we shall make all the expedition we pofsibly can & arrive at york fort from the Athapuscow & Churchill as soon as we pofsibly can wishing better succefs to Trade with you than has the appearance here is the sincere wish of
Dear Sir
Your Most Obedt. huble Servt.
Peter Fidler"


" From Mr Thomas Inland Master
from AR
Poplar River April 4th 1807
Sir
I received yours dated 27th Feb. by Mr Sutherland informing me of your intention of having a party in the Poplar River next Summer if worthy of pofsefsion - from the Knowledge I have of this part of the Country to gather with my poor Succefs here this Year makes me think it will scarcely be of any advantage establishing a post within the vicinity of this place as the Beaver are very scarce and the Indians are all meaning to go to different places to hunt next year.
My motive for coming to the Poplar River to winter was from hearing it was a Beaver Coutry and the Canadians was there without an opposition. The utmost of the returns from this place as far as I can from an Idea will not exceed 1000 MB of which I think my returns will be 800 MB as I have two posts between this and Osnaburgh under my direction I mean to take my Remains out and leave people all the Summer at one of those places as usual and I Remain
Sir
Your Obed. Servt.
Wm Thomas."


" From Mr Howse Inland Master
Paint Creek May 14th 1807
Sir
Since my arrival here I have been made to understand you wish to be informed annualy of the Circumstances of the several posts by the Masters themselves & that you had exprefsed some dissatisfaction at my silence on this Head last year. It is true Mr Bird gave a hint of your not being pleased with my Letter but left me to guefs the cause so that I readily concluded it was merely a deficiency of the method and Correctnefs so necefsary in Epistolary Communications or perhaps in a want of paying that respect due to the Superiority of your station. the first I had little hopes of amending The Letter I was not concious of. - But supposing that I have now learnt the true cause I proceed to say that the Disturbance that took place last Summer between the Blackfeet &c having driven from the upper Quarter a great N. of Crees & Afsinnaboignes I entertained for a while sanguine Hopes of the formers retiring to the Woods & consequently resuming their wonted Employments of trapping & hunting furs, appearaces continues for some time favourable but from one of those fatalities which seem always ready to overturn our best founded Expectations an unusual Scarcity of Animals almost amounting to s starvation prevented the Realizing of what I had anticepated with so great Satisfaction the want of provisions so great that far from having wherewith to bait their traps - ther hunger was sometimes satisfied by the scrifice of their Buffalo Coats &c. This Extreme was by no means common but craving Appetities was a very prevalent Complaint some fared better and killed a few Skins.
James Gaddy who wintered with me just after the Return of the packet I sent below; was so unlucky as to get his Arm broken by a Bull which of course has disabled him all the spring. a Circumstance that has been to me a great Lofs. I hope he will be well enough to undertake the Journey to Swan River. Mr Hallet is going down for the exprefs purpose of sending him off.
I should have added that I was greatly in want of Hatchets - & that those I had were very bad ones some of the Indians brought them in the Spring broken to pieces & excused themselves for not paying their debts by saying their Hatchets were for nothing.
I received from Mr Fidler the few plumbs you were good enough to send. and am
Respectfully
Sir
Your Most Obed. Servt.
Jos. Howse."


" From Mr Kennedy Inland Master
Moose Lake May 20th 1807
Sir
This will accompany a packet of letters from above which twice forwarded to crofs Lake during the winter and for want of perserverence in the bearers had the mortification to have them as often returned, as the Season now admits of a conveyance by water I take the earliest opportunity of dispatching them to Oxford House by the home hguards (Mefsinakeeshick & Mistickathenne) who have wintered here, and am in hopes they will reach you before the arrival of Mr Bird at Steel River as when I last heard from him he exprefs'd a wish to that effect.
I am sorry to inform you that the bearers are much disappointed in their expectations at this place they have in short done mere nothing given away the Goods they took on credits at York, been entirely dependant on me for Amunition, Tobacco &c during the winter & are in consequence more wretched for want of Cloathing. I have barely supplied them with amunition to take them to Oxford House where I have persuaded them to return & they are in hopes of getting a supply there to enable them to do something before they visit? York a list of what I have received from them on your Accounts (being the whole of their hunts to a triffle) is here enclosed.
I have pafsed a tolerable winter in regard to living, plenty of fish & some Meat & in respect to Trade better than I expected in the fall from such a poor place one thing and another say 700 MB my Neighbours were not so powerful either in men or goods as they were last year and I can afsure you that since the fall they have not made a pack. I leave here according to Mr Fidler directions two men during the Summer & if amunition could be got I doubt not but a good number of Swan Skins might be procured as there will be a good many Indians here & I think no opposition for want of amunition & Brandy I have been obliged to tent among the Indians for this month past to preserve the few skins they killed untill I could get a supply from Cumberland but their will not admit of a sufficiency during the Summer, I received yesterday what can be spared and I hope it will nearly serve untill a supply can be got from below, as I am just on the eve of embarking for Cumberland House & in hopes of meeting you at Steel River I have only time to add that
I am Sir
Your Most Obed. Humble Servt.
Alexander Kennedy"


" From Mr Sinclair Inland Master
Oxford House 16th June 1807
Dear Sir
Hugh Sabbiston arrived here this day at 1 PM with two Canoes & 25 Bundles of Furs the produce of Crofs & Jack Lake Houses the Total will be better then 4000 MB From this quarter but I am so bufsy with Ind. & packing of Furs that I have not as yet had time to send you the exact account of the Trade. - I am not Loosing a moment of time in - pushing on the businefs as far as lies in my power.
Don. Sutherland has been at Poplar River with the letters his letter to me I take the Libery to Inclose for your perusal. - Mr Swain I think will be Back sooner then you expected from Swan river Mr Bird I expect dayly. - the Indians who traded at Jack Lake is all coming down here very soon this will put me to at Least 200 MB of Expences & you know Sir they must be well done to in hopes of their staying by our side another year - I shall do my best if Good words & good treatment will do any thing in our favour to keep the Ind. from Visiting the French - this summer.
Hugh Sabbiston is consented to take down a Canoe the Length of the Rock - He wishes much to visit the Factory in this case his Bowsman can come up with Alex. Birston as he will require 4 Good hands being only one Canoe to come up I suppose Simpson will be left the Rock before those can arrive. - Hugh Sabbiston has done every thing in his power & Conducted every thing with Judgement that Laid in his way. - he brought down a large Canoe and one man with him & A. Birston another their is Good Water in Hill River & above this it is very high this I expect will keep Good water in the Lower rivers all the Summer, the men cannot have the Least objection to take good Cargoes from GH on account of the water.
James Halcro thinks his wages is comed out to him and it is not offer'd to him. by what I can understand his reason for saying so is this - his brother who is in the police office in London went to the Hudson's Bay House and required of Mr Ball whither James was coming home or not. Mr Balls answer to him was that he was not coming as his wages was sent out to him. - this I told him was false - as I saw myself what the Company had said concerning him & he had no occasion to doubt what you had told him.
I am Sir
Your Obed. huble. Servt.
Will. Sinclair."


" To Mr Cook Inland Master
Gordon House June 22nd 1807
Dear Sir
I reced yours of the 14th the 20th the Cargoes safe & satisfactory - expecting Canoes daily from above I have kept the men longer (than intended) for furthing the conveyance of Furs to the Factory.
I am glad the Ind. have brought you so good hunts and have no doubt of their being well pleased it is my wish and I am sensible of your superior qualifications & best endeavours for that consequential duty.
The succefs of Mr Tate and out post forbids relinquishing their stations particularly as I understand they are not only out of the Reach of Severn navigation, but can be easier, and sooner approached to from York, than from that Settlement this being the case Tho. McNab now returns, he with Mr Tates approbation (I understand) and the Ind. desire means to build a house at a Lake further in the interior.
I trust the Boats speedy return from CR will enable you to fit out the N River & these two Sward parties satisfactory till a further supply is reced from Europe.
Soon after the arrival of next boats from you shall expect to see you at York Factory and am
Yours &c
John McNab."


" To Mr McNab Chief York Factory
York Factory 25th June 1807
Dear Sir
It gives me much pleasure to find that the last Cargoes to Gordon House were satisfactorily received. I hope the present afsignment will also meet your approbation. Mefs Tate & T. McN will be ready to depart on their respection Destinations to morrow.
The Boat from Churchill may be expected in a few Days & will I trust afford the means of supplying the AR Settlements nothing worthy notice has occur'd to the Factory since I had the pleasure of writing last. The Indians have arrived but those who have seen you on there pafsage down & none I believe are expected by Ketshekeeshick & following.
I think you Sir for your oblying Exprefsions in last Letter there is nothing so flattering to me as your good opinion. It is the first object of my wishes I shall be carefully preserved by
Dear Sir
Your Obedt. Huble. Servt.
Wm. H. Cook"


" To Mr Cook Inland Master
Gordon House July 2nd 1807
Dear Sir
Yesterday I reced yours of the 25 Ult. five Canoes arrived a few minutes before and three more before they were unloaded - all the Furs here and those by the above 8 Canoes, are now sent down by 6 men having detained 2 here for Inland.
I expect Mr Bird here by the 8th or 9th Inst. at farthest - if you add 2 or 3 men to his party they with those expected from above, will be ready to set out from here the 11th or 12th Inst. at farthest.
I hope with you Mr Auld will send as much as enable you to satisfy Mr Bird till the fall and your own wishes for the N River it will then be a compensation for what he reced from YF last Fall.
I am Dear Sir
Your very hble Servt.
John McNab."


" From Mr Auld Chief Churchill
Churchill Factory 2 July 1807
Dear Sir
Your Batteau manned with 5? people arrived here the 30th Ult. with such articles as were specified in your list and letter dated Gordon House.
You will receive from this place such articles as were promised besides a supply of these now requested to be added. I am glad I can spare you without materially hurting ourselves. I have not lost a moment in sending your people off as you desire.
I rejoice to hear that the Canadians have not done you more harm I wish I could say the same but from a private Letter dated last Nov. sent me from Mr Spence by the Indians in the spring.
I am extremely sorry to hear that a Canadians Trader Mr Henry took Mr Spence (who was alone by himself without any person else summering with him) a prisoner & carried him to the Frog Portage in the latter end of Sept. and kept him 12 days he was again permitted to return when he found all his goods & Furs taken by the natives who had destributed them among themselves thinking he (Mr S) was murdered he received a part back again from them - during his detention he was forced to sign an engagement agreeably to their views and in their own writing and if I mistake not his ideas lead him to think himself bound by such an agreement which must effectually ruin the Comp. affairs in that quarter than in which I did not suppose they would prosper better any where else you will expect a cause for such flagrant conduct. They said it was because he was a party concerned in seizing the fellow I carried to England (whom by the bye the Committee could and should have afforded at least 1000 £ in the prosecution of to conviction but he got off at an easier rate) We say that their goods had not arrived at Deer's Lake our house had plenty & a gang of N. Indians arrived either one or two days after with a large quantity of Furs & provisions all of which naturally found an asylum in their otherwise empty depot Besides Mr Spence was upwards of 100 miles from the place of the above transaction I expected at least 3000 MB from that quarter now I do not expect 20 altho there are near 20 men destined last fall for that Country round the Deer Lake.

Our Factory trade is cosiderably better than last year & of the primest quality I still hope for a considerable addtion to it. I know of 1000 yet to be added to it. as for Inland I know nothing of it no one having yet arrived from that quarter which is rather extraordinary as there are few examples of similarly late arrivals.
A few families of Eskimaux arrved here in the Spring they have filled about 10 pipes of Oil but I expect they will fill many more. our Goose Hunt was pretty productive say 25 Casks salted besides living on fresh Geese for 5 Weeks to compensate we have rec'd only about 300 lb of Venison & expect no more we begin to get a few Salmon.
Inclosed with this is a list of such goods as are sent these now and those formerly we will insert in our Acct. Book according to the copy now sent.
From Mr Cook also I have rec'd a few lines announcing your absence. His good wishes joined to yours I accept with pleasure heightened to the utmost when wrapped up in a leaf from the Olive Branch.
Without in the least lacerating the precious envelope I beg to return mine added to those of my Mefsmates for your happinefs & prosperity.
I am Dear Sir
Your Most Obedt. Servt.
Will. Auld.
P.S. Being informed that two of my Indians (Cappetowe cappo & Mishis kinekew, the eldest Son of Iesu escum) traded their Furs, already paid for here at the house of Wm Corrigal under Mr Cook have sent a list of their debts here & request you will per the Ship packet Men acquaint me with the amount rec'd that I may carry the furs to this years acct.
The Factory Trade will be about 6000 B in this quantity are only 200 Deer skins & these are from Eskimaux last Fall, I will not take from them again."


" From Mr Auld Chief Churchill
Churchill Factory 6th July 1807
Dear Sir
Since writing the first Letter the detention of your Boat by a strong easterly wind has allowed time for the arrival of our People from Inland. It is with extreme concern I add they bring the smallest Trade brought down these many years and to add to this they have suffered greatly from want of Provisions - I am sorry likewise to inform you of the Death of Mr George Charles who after a long illnefs terminated his sufferings in the Month of March last.
Mr Spence informs me he was carried off by force from his own house by the Canadians last Fall & detained from it about 12 days as I mentioned in a former letter but by sending up Mr D. McKay to take charge of his house for the purpose of breaking the engagement he had been forced to sign lefs lofs was sustained to the concern than expected.
Mr Fidler arrived at our house in the Deer Lake on the 9th June and on the 12th set off on his undertak'g. from some reports he will meet very likely with many Ind. who are said to have plenty of Furs but are under Canadians orders not to come to Deer Lake untill they shall have Goods brought from the Southward. On the last date specified it was first made public Mr F's purpose so he has every advantage over the Canadians who have only a single man at the above ment'd lake.
In hurry I conclude with best wishes for your succefs.
I am Dear Sir
Your most Obedt.
Will. Auld."


" To Mr Sutherland Inland Master
Gordon House 11th July 1807
Mr Sutherland
I received yours of the 3d June last sorry to hear of your indisposition. I trust by the time your receive this you are enjoying good health.
Mr Bird knows he could not leave a fitter person in Charge of Cumberland with me trusts you will continue.
Exprefs yourself clearly what these articles are you think yourself deprived of where this discontent lies and the causes thereof it is no lefs a duty for your representation than for my attention.
I am yours very Sincerely
John McNab"


" To Mr Howse Inland Master
Gordon House 11th July 1807
Mr Howse
I received yours of the 14th May last with much satisfaction to find all was well and that you have had so succefsfull a winter.
I wish to hear from every Conductor of a station (if he is qualified for Communication) the duty of Correspondence is reciprocal and open on any occasion to him who has the particular Regulation and direction of such departments.
I am sorry to hear of distrefses suffered by the Indians in your vicinity - I understand this is a rare occurrence.
The Hatchets are in general of a bad quality every representation made on this Subject continues in a fectual.
I am
Sir
Your Very Sincerely
John McNab."


" To Mr Pruden Inland Master
Gordon House 11th July 1807
Mr Pruden
I rec'd yours of the 7th May last with much Satisfaction to hear of your Succefs.
I shall be glad to hear of your continuing Succefs with the Cootenays.
Am sorry to hear your health is so much impared and that Such accause should require the Request your desire. I hope long before this time next year you may from different sentiments and enjoy your health it is my wish and it may be your interest to stay Inland.
I am yours very Sincerely
John McNab."


" York Factory 14th July 1807
Gentlemen
I trust by the time you Receive this every thing will be in a preparatory state for executing the designs we have judged eligible as Resolved on at Gordon House.
This Canoe conveys a small addition to the Saskatshewan departments further requisites I hope will be time ously sent after our European Supply.
I have told the bearer to be expeditious and trust he will Reach OH so as prevent delay to your Various intentions.
I am
Gent'n
Your very hble Servt.
John McNab."


" To Mr Auld Chief Churchill
York Factory 31st July 1807
Dear Sir
I rec'd your two letters of the 2d and 6 July last the Articles accompanying were rec'd safe with much satisfaction.
I am sorry to hear of the embarafsments of your party at Deer Lake, the Indians attachment to Mr Spence evinced by their returning of the articles removed give reason to hope future trade will not be injured by the inimical trasaction I am glad Mr McKay conduct on the Occasion has been so beneficial to the Service satisfactory to you and creditable to himself - if Mr Fidler expedition realizes your hopes it will be doubly pleasing.
Our trade will considerably exceed that of last year as with you provisions have been scarce Inland and since May a universal cry of want has reached us from all quarters - no Deer as usual, the consequence of which has been severely felt not only by the Natives but by every one of us.
These Ind. sent for our packet in case of its coming to Churchill first as has been the cause for years past.
I shall be glad of Mr Fidler & mens early arrival here.
Dear Sir
Your very humble Servt.
John McNab
PS Mr Cook represents by John Harpers afsertion that the Ind. called Lame Crow & his younger brother, who had traded with him many years & owed him considerable debt, went & traded with Mr Holmes these are occurrences it is impofsible at all times to prevent. likewise the Tobacco Indian has done the same."


" From Mr Bird Inland Master
Oxford House 24th July 1807
Dear Sir
Tomorrow I intend embarking for Cumberland. The Businefs of this place is now finally settled in the manner you directed and in a few days hence all parties will be off for their several Destinations.
Mr Swain set off this Morning in the Canoe that is to return from Swan River Hugh Sabbiston arrived a few hours after his departure and will of course follow him as soon as pofsible.
Inclosed you will receive the Indent Contracts and Mens Resolves. &c &c
Wishing you an early sight of the Ship with agreeable News from England.
I Remain Sir
Your Obedt. hble Servt.
James Bird"


" From Mr Auld Chief Churchill
Churchill Factory 24th July 1807
Dear Sir
By the return of a few Indians who had been visiting their relations here I seize the opportunity of acquainting you with the occurrences at this place since my last.
Mr McKay you are well acquainted with and whom you have no Doubt already seen at YF. On his arrival from inland with all his luggage determined no doubt to shift his quarters to a more genial clime or merely for his amusement or pofsibly to indulge his caprice or more charitably to satisfy his affection for his Old master yourself (tho by the bye I understand that he informed the Committee that he would serve under none but myself in Hudsons Bay) I say this McKay took an opportunity to excite some dsagreeable sensations which procured him some plausible (in his opinion) pretext for commencing a correspondence in a series of letters no doubt beginning N 1? Public but acquiesing instantly in his demands exprefsed in his first estimable favour I desired to have no further communication in this way so in a few days after when all the Inland Gentlemen had left the Factory and our table cleared of superfluous glafses he fairly took himself & son away supplied with more than he could want or require. What is true motive is I know not for I never asked as nothing could please me better than to make over to you the duty I myself had fully resolved to execute in sending him home, do not however think I am so ungenerous as to have wished you this trouble some fellow's company on the contrary his leaving this place surprises every body. I mean as far as we can be surprised at a Madman. For his sake I wish you an early arrival of the Ship.

By Mr Spence's account of him he is wholly unfit for any station Inland and at the Factory no Chief would suffer such a fire brand. If however you have any affection remaining for him pray dip him in one of your strongest freezing Mixtures and send him to Lord Melville who will then perhaps venture to employ him in regulating the striking Clock of a Catamaran.

Our few families of Eskimaux are at seal River where I have people to receive from them the Blubber of Whales which are much more easily killed there than here being shoaler water, indeed we have only 5 people at the Factory who are fully required to watch the motions of a dozen Strange Eskimaux who came last night with white Foxes & wolves only. As I had last Summer informed those of their tribe who visited here that I never would take any more Deer Skins from them, indeed I have only 200 Deer Skins in this years trade & these were brought last August by some of the same people while I was at YF I refuse taking these skins from either Southern or Northern Indians the former to restrain from unnecefsary debauchery and to force the latter to have recourse to trapping furs with the sale of which they are now supplied with necefsaries and to oblige them to desert a country which tho teeming with Deer has no shelter for the valuable Animals whose furs alone are able to cover the enormous expenditure of the Company. It is true I might have Thousands of Deer Skins but then I should scarcely get any furs and I am of opinion that these of this Factory superior as they may be to some others will not after paying the Duty refund a sum equal to the goods given in exchange for them and if our Natives can get us to trade these Skins for necefsaries and content themselves with their desolate country where only Rein Deer inhabit Churchill would soon be no more.
In the Factory Trade of upwards 6000 B. not one skin has been paid for in Brandy. Our Natives here expect and receive that always for nothing and surely never did Indians better deserve encouragement their great succefs is perhaps in part owing to putting an end to the trade of Deers Skins partly to a greater No. of Natives who have visited here from great distances difsatisfied at the Canadian parsimony now no longer opposed.
I sincerely wish you may have an encreased trade with all the other desireable concommitants this country can afford and Remain Dear Sir
Your most Obed. Servt.
Will. Auld."


" From Mr Bird Inland Master
Cedar Lake August 18th 1807
Dear Sir
We have just met the Canoes returning from Cumberland and I am happy to say that the News from Inland is of a pleasing Nature. Peace is reestablished among the Indians. Provisions abundant & course hopes entertain'd of a succefsful Winter. - Mr Pruden has been obliged to decline building up the North Branch, after a great deal of trouble he has as certain'd that, there are no Beaver there & that the River itself is impracticable even for Canoes. The Coottanaha's have not visited Acton House as expected. Mr Thompson tis supposed has intercepted them perhaps another Reason will enable us to determine whether an advantageous Trade can be established with there people or not thro' the numerous Difficulties with which it must be attended, hitherto I have thought 'tis impofsible.
Mr Tomison arrived at Cumberland soon after we left it in the spring. his men were unable to go down to Churchill till he could carry a supply of Pimmeecan from Cumberland notwithstanding our scarcity Mr Sutherland supply'd him with 9 bags & after remains only two nights he returned to the CR Settlements.
By these Canoes you will receive the addition of 600 MB to the Trade - collected at the several Houses.
I Remain Sir
Your Obed. huble Servt.
James Bird.
P.S. Mr Sutherland I met here rather in a ill state of health which has caused his coming down, as his services are at present absolutely necefsary at Cumberland. I have prevailed on him to return with me and hope that his thus sacrificing his Fears to hs Duty will gain him the Notice of you sir and the Honble Committee."


" From Mr Auld Chief Churchill
Churchill Factory Aug. 1807
Dear Sir
I rec'd yours of the 31st Ult. and am glad your Batteau arrived with her Cargo safe.
By the arrival of Mr Fidler at this place on the 4 Inst. I have great addition to my satisfaction in the favourable report of the track which he followed untill he reached the Athapuscow Lake. I had equipped Mr J Charles exprefsly for the purpose of establishing a settlement wherever Mr Fidler should recommend. This equipment was met by the latter Gentleman 2/3 on the way to Nelson House from here. I cannot help flattering myself that scarcely any employment or voyage of discovery could have afforded more real satisfaction to our Employers or even to Mr Fidler himself who has thus had it in his power to fill up so large a Chasm in the Geography of the Country exclusive of ascertaining the practicablility of the route for commercial purposes for myself I acknowledge nothing could benefit this Factory so effectually as being able to form Settlements to the E'd of the Athapuscow Lake to which the Natives may repair to and from thence they may more easily be induced to visit this place thus we shall have a chain of posts in a new direction without at all relinquishing the idea of reestablishing our abandoned settlements at & beyond Isle a la crofs in due time.
I am extremely pleased to hear you have considerably encreased your trade our general returns will therefore enable the Honble Committee to persevre with energy & rigour and to resume that spirit of advenure of which they are the acknowledged Patrous in England.
The fatigues and privations suffered by Mr Fidler and his people entitle them to remain here untill they have the opportunity of going round to YF in the Ship which is daily expected here.
With concern I observe your postscript. I was willing to leave this topic for ever and accordingly in my last Letter to you but one I tore off a postscript to it which complained of J Harper's conduct perhaps this enabled or justified him to find fault first which advantage I do not envy. It is now sent. I cannot say any thing with regard to the Lame Crow but the Tobacco Indian has regularly traded many years with our people therefore suppose J.H. is mistaken in claiming? him. Now concerning this same J Harper something must be wrong about him for you remember when you were here you had substantial reasons to be difsatisfied and not a year has pafsed since but I have likewise suffered by him. pofsibly the Committee may at last insist on him leaving off his bad practices.
Wishing you every happinefs I Remain
Dear Sir
Your most Obedt Servt.
Will. Auld."


" From Mr Swain Inland Master
Swan River August 12th 1807
Dear Sir
After a tedious pafsage I arrived at this place last evening where I found all safe, and James Gaddy has been very well received by the Barren ground Indians who promises will. - I have sent down by Canoe all the Furs got here that are valuable three Bundles - Containing Whole Beaver 107, Half Do. 18, Bears large prime 3, at Br.do. 1, Otters prime 5 & 5 Swan Skins. - the enclosed is a list of Articles I hope you will send by fall Canoe. - also a Blacksmiths hand hammer and a Scyth, Scifsors pr Taylor and Goose.
There is a Canadian here a freeman who wishes to be with me and will do the same duty as another (running after Indians excepted) he is a Blacksmith by trade and a very Industrious man. be so kind as lett me know if it meets your approbation and what you will allow him for his servitude during Winter.
I sincerely hope you will not order James Gaddy to return to the Saskatchewan in the fall as I really think he will under as much service to the Employ at this place as in the Saskatchewan where they have so many old hands already and I am pretty sure there will be no skins procured here but what is run well after during winter and without a man of this kind I am afraid there would be much lost. - I am afraid I will have three Houses to oppose, this is what I learn from the freeman.
Provisions being scarce here at present. I am obliged to give the three men that goes down some of my own allowance for there pafsage hope you will send a little flour in lieu of it - be so good as lett the Goods that comes by fall Canoe be put in as few parcels as pofsible and if you could put 6 men in the Canoe it would be of service as I have to build three houses. I Remain
Sir
Your Obedt. humble Servt.
Tho. Swain."


" From Mr Cook Inland Master
North River Sept. 4th 1807
Dear Sir
I have been to the Indians up the river & traded from them a little dried meat & 25 Whole Deer. these we have rafted down to the High bank but our trouble now commences & I am afraid that the Wind standing fresh in from the sea will prevent our getting them to the Factory in a state of preservation. If these Deer should be lost the misfortune will be aggravated by afsuring you that they are among them 15 of the finest of the Bucks this season produce.
You will hear from Rob. Garrock further particulars & any plan you may think proper to adopt for the supply of the Factory or the preservation of your little stock of English provisions will receive every afsistance & attention. If you approve of the plan send'g men up this way to Eat & carry Occasional supplies to the Factory the sooner you put the scheme in Excution the better as it is quite uncertain how long the Deer may crofs.
I am Dear Sir
Your Most Obed. Servt.
Will. Cook."


" To Mr Cook Inland Master
York Factory Sept. 6th 1807
Dear Sr
I received your Note by the arrival of your men the Venison is in a better state than could have been expected. it is an inestimable cargo as times at present are and Shews your fore thought and attention in the most conspicuous manner.
I have sent a Number of men to effect the purpose you so considerately advise. Yourself and them I expect here the 12th Inst. at furthest as if no ship is heard of before that day the Cumberland Canoes must start and a division be made of the little stock here for Winter subsistance.
Should the Ship arrive during the ensuing week inst. dispatch shall be sent for your quickest arrival here, of course you will direst the men to accompany in the Speediest manner.
I am Dear Sir
Your very hble Servt.
Jn McNab"


" From Mr Cook
North River Sept. 7 1807
Dear Sir
The great uncertainty of the continuance of plenty in this Quarter renders it necefsary to take advantage of the present moment. - I intend therefore to set off to the crofsing place the first opportunity altho' we have no tracking Line purpose taking a Big Canoe & if pofsible to give the men the meeting on their way or at least be active in preparing a supply for them against their arrival there. I wish our meeting to take place at the upper Deer crofsing place as the lower ones are occupied by the Homeguards who look upon our visits with an Eye of Envy not at all conceiving themselves bound to lend a helping hand to the unfortunate & distrefs'd.
The late high tides have robb'd Sukesquatim of his Canoe & he begs to intercede with you towards furnishing him with another if pofsible - I wish the Canoe destined to bring over the CR packet may not have experienced some hardship from the same unexpected cause - If the Wind had abated this day I intended to have gone acrofs for the purpose of ascetaining her Situation.
I thank you kindly for all Favor's & Remain
Dear Sir
Your Obd. huble Servt.
Wm. Cook"


" York Factory Sept. 9th 1807
Gentl'n
We are happy in informing you of the Schooner Mainwarings arrival here the 8th Inst.
The Honble Committee say " as soon as her Cargo is discharged in which you will render all pofsible dispatch you will Commit the said Vefsel to the care of Mr Geo. Taylor Master of our Brig Beaver whom we direct to proceed immediately with the said Schooner to Moose & there deliver her up to our Chief and Council of that Factory"
The Consequence of this direction that Vefsel is dispatched in the speediest manner from hence and from Mr Taylor sagacity and abilities we have hopes of her timeous arrival with you.
We are anxiously looking for the Prince of Wales from CR as several of our Inland Settlements depend on a supply which is still to come from her.
The Trade from hence will be better than last year upwards of 31,000 Churchill & Severn are also increased.
We have no Doubt of the utmost attention being paid to Mr Taylors return to Severn his promptitude deserves particular Countenance
We are Gentl'n
Your very huble Servt.
Jn McNab
Wm Cook
Peter Fidler
Wm Sinclair"


" To the Masters in Saskatshewan
York Factory 13th Sept. 1807
Gentlemen
In the 24th Par. of their Gen. Letter their Honors say although it may appear at first &c as in 24th Par of Gen. Letter dated London 31 May 1807
You will act with prudence and Consideration on this occasion and rather than offend accomplish this regulation by degrees - Prime Cats & Wolvereens this year as a Br. each the Coon as will as Rabbits as directed by the Committee and as kit foxes are said to be Similar to Rabb. you will be guided by the Canadians & take no lefs than they do, as by intaling? the Natives you may lose prime furs in dread of discouraging the Swan Hunt continue the present Standard till further advice from their Honors.
The large Musquash to be ? as a Br. the small 15 as their Honors direct.
This to be forwarded to Mr Bird.
I am Dear Sir
Your Most Obed. Servt.
John McNab"


" To Mr Sutherland
York Factory 13th Sept. 1807
Dear Sir
After detaining the Canoes till this day they must at last proceed without the most material Articles in your List.
The Schooner Mainwaring arrived the 8 Inst. brought the Packet & a few Articles from England unfortunately no Cloth, we are anxiously looking for the Prince of Wales from CR she has a fine supply on board.
I was glad to hear of the good news and prospects from Inland & hope the expected result will be realized.
I am
Dear Sir
Your very huble Servt.
Jn McNab"


" From Mr Auld Chief Churchill
Churchill Factory 4th Sept. 1807
Dear Sir
I am sorry to acquaint you that owing to the latenefs of the season, no Ship arrived, and the very great scarcity of Provisions at this place particularly salt meat & Flour, besides being destitute of Powder either for the purposes of Trade or Subsistence. I send you this. You may naturally suppose our case is bad in respect of the Flour, having received from yourself & Mr Thomas all that has supported us during the Year, at this moment I have only 1 Cask of Beef another of Pork and our last cask of Powder was broached about the 20th July - For the last four weeks we have had from 32 to 37 People living on our small stock. - I have sent in every direction for fish but we cannot procure above 1 or 2 days at most in the week and altho' for the last 3 weeks the game has been plenty both in the Marsh & on the Rocks yet we dare not touch the sacred remains of our Powder. Our fears are great for the Ships & should any accident have befell them many must suffer & some will perish.
Unable to detain your Packet Men I have sent them to you but not untill I have waited for the anniversary of the latest Ships arrival since I have been in the Service. Should she arrive here first you may depend on my forwarding your Packet with the utmost expedition & hope you will have people waiting at Sam's creek on the look out. But should unhappily no Ship arrive I shall in that case wait untill the 16th of this present month & send a boat for Powder which you must share with us else our case will be dreadful indeed.

In the event of no Ship arriving here nor with you in any reasonable time I presume the Beaver Brig with the most valuable part of your Trades will be dispatched to England. Would it not be worth while for Capt. Taylor to come out and complete his Cargo with the primest of ours also. [a mark that could be a question mark] This would enable the Honble Committee to continue their trade even under the dreadful lofs of their Shipping outward bound but pofsibly he might find the Ship arrived at this place so save his voyage to England Which ever way you determine on I anxiously intreat a part of your powder.
We are now about preparing for sending off the People to the interior the suppy'g of whom for their journey will leave us poor enough in many things but there they will be able much better to subsist than at the Factory. I only detain 6 People besides the Cook & Steward who will be a useful help when we shall be able to net Partridges till when we must exist entirely on our little remains of Geese & Fish if we can catch them. I mean to dispatch the people on the 7th or 8 at the furthest which will allow them no time for trifling on their voyage to the Interior.
You know also we have no Tobacco therefore any thing even our Brazil Tobacco returned will be acceptable. The last of the Rolls you supplied us with is open and our Inland Settlements will suffer for the want of this and Powder both of which were to have gone up this fall.
With sorrowful anticipations I conclude by offering our compliments to Yourself and the Gentlemen of your Mefs and am
Dear Sir
Your most obed. Servant
Will. Auld."


" From Mr Auld Chief Churchill
Mr McNab
Sir
You will please give to Adam Snodie and Peter Irvine the sum of thirty Shillings in goods each and charge CF with the goods as payment for carrying the packet from this place to YF.
Sir your most Obed. Servant
William Auld."


16th Sept. 1807 5 A.M.
To Mr Auld Chief Churchill
Dear Sir
Your letters pr Mr Fidler, Wilkes, & your men are duly received Captain Hanwell has your further European Dispatches, your desire of the 16th Inst are fulfulled & your Indians (who arrived last night) are expeditiously returned to you they have received 25 Beaver, the Gentlemen join in wishing you a happy & succefsful winter with Dear Sir
Your most Obed. Servant
Jn McNab."


B.239/b/74

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