" A Journal of the most remarkable Transactions and Occurrences at York Fort from 4th September 1771 to 29th August 1772
kept by Mr Andrew Graham
Chief there"
[Cover]

" York Fort Journal Kept by Mr Andrew Graham Chief Factor for the Honble Hudsons Bay Company commencing September the 4th 1771 and Ending August the 29th 1772"
[Title page]


Sept. 4 1771
" Wednesday Wind variable and moderate weather. Mr Jacobs and Captain Christopher went on board the Ship and I took Command of York Fort and all Appurtinances. Men stowing away the Cargoe. A few Deer and a little Fat from Indians."

Sept. 5
" Thursday Wind S by W a fresh gale with clear warm weather. Sent two Boats to the Goose tent with Salt & Casks. The Men stowing away the Cargo. Ship and Sloop sailed for their respective Ports."

Sept. 6
" Friday Wind West a gentle gale with clear warm weather. Carpenter and two Men employed about the Battery: Smith doing necefsary work for Factory Use: Armourer mending Indian Guns: The others stowing away the Cargo. Sent the Home Natives to the Goofe Tent and trusted several Bungee Natives; sending them off to their proper hunting Grounds. A few Deer skins from Indians. In the Evening Men returned with the Boats, brought two empty damaged Casks, which will come in for Furrs next Summer."

Sept. 7
" Saturday Wind variable from W to NNW warm weather. Men Cocked the Hay in one large Cock. Whale Sloop came up, brought the Outer & five fathom hole Buoys. Unrigged the Crafts: Gave Mr Johnson his dispatches for Churchill, and sent by him Trading Goods &c as pr Letter following."

" To Mr Mofes Norton Chief at Prince of Wales Fort.
York Fort 7th Sept. 1771
Good Sir
By Your Company's Letter dated 26th August and directed to Mr Jacobs; I had the pleasure to hear of the safe arrival of Capt. Fowler; and the great succefs Your Whale fishery met with under Mr Robertson's management; and heartily wish a continuance of Succefs in all your Undertakings.

I have sent by Mr Johnston 1000 lb fine Powder; 560 lb Duck Shot; 560 lb Bristol Shot; 47 1/2 Yards plain white Cloth; 69 Yards plain red Cloth; 66 1/4 Yards corded red Cloth; 45 1/4 Yards blue plain Cloth; 21 3/4 Yards blue corded Cloth; Blankets 75; 45 1/2 Yards Flannel; 16 Yards red Duffel; 16 Yards blue Duffel; 1000 Flints; 104 gallons English Brandy neat measure from England Anno Domini 1771. I have also sent 10 Hogsheads salted Geese; 3 Hogsheads Venison; 2 1/2 Leather Tent Cloths and 2 empty Pipes; All which Goods please to give Credit for in Your Account Book, excepting the Tent Cloths empty Pipes and Country Provisions. I shall do myself the pleasure to enquire after Your Health about January next; and will in prudence at all times supply Mr Norton for the Company's Interest; as in duty bound.

I Conclude wishing theCompany's Ships a safe arrival in the Port of London, and We a happy Winter with general Succefs; desiring to remain
Good Sir
Your very humble Servt.
Andrew Graham
P.S. Our Compliments to the Gentlemen of Your Mefs. Received from Mr Johnston three Tuns Iron bound Casks. Ten bushels Bay Salt and two quarter Casks Train Oil."

Sept. 8
" Sunday NNE Cloudy weather with Rain at times. Divine Service as usual. The Churchill Sloop Wind bound. Trusted several Bungee Natives who brought few Deer Skins & some Fat.
Barometer 30.08. Thermometer 47 1/2"

Sept. 9
" Monday Wind NNW a small breeze with Rain at times. Armourer mending Indian Guns; Smith doing various Jobs for Factory service; Carpenter hanging a new Door to the Cloth Warehouse; the old Door being decayed; The others brought two Boat Loads of Grafs from the Island three Miles above the Fort. a few Deer and a little Fat to day.
Barometer 29.88. Thermometer 40."

" NB The Altitudes of the Instruments are taken at 12 O'Clock at Noon. The + and - which are annexed to some of the Altitudes of Thermometer, denote that they stood so many Degrees above or below the Cypher when these marks are not used then the Number is always above."

Sept. 10
" Tuesday Wind West a fresh gale with pleasant clear Weather. Tradesmen employed about necefsary Duty; The others brought the remainder of the Grafs from the Island and spread It on the Plantation to dry; Myself with Mr Cocking busy Trading Deer skins and Trusting Indians. I am informed by a Leadng Indian that Lewis Primo is well. Churchill Sloop sailed for her destined Place and was soon out of sight.
Barometer 29.44. Thermometer 45."

Sept. 11
" Wednesday Wind West a fresh gale with clear pleasant weather. Tradesmen about their respective duties. Sent Six Men up the River four miles up to bring a Raft of dry Firewood. and the Horse which was left on the Island all Ship-time. The others making Hay on the Plantation and put by the Whale Sloop for the winter into her usual Birth. Several Natives gone to their respective hunting Grounds. A few Geese to day.
Barometer 29.44. Thermometer 45."

Sept. 12
" Thursday Wind NW a strong gale with clear weather at times. Carpenter and three Men about the Battery. Smith making Iron-work for the service of the Craft. Armourer mending Guns. Sloop-master and two Men put by the Marine Stores. Wooders returned brought two floats of fire-wood; but could not catch the Horse; He being wild and swift as a Deer. In the Afternoon hauled up the Long Boat.
Barometer 29.90. Thermometer 38."

Sept. 13
" Friday Wind West clear weather & moderate. Finished Hay-making. Put-by the Shallop and carried up the Fire-wood. Several Natives gone to their respective hunting Grounds. and two Canoes came to Trade a few Deer skins, dried Meat Fat &c. Yesterday's high Tide has almost demolished the lower Battery; which has been continually washing away and decaying these twelve years past. A few Geese to day.
Barometer 29.74. Thermometer 38."

Sept. 14
" Saturday Wind North clear moderate weather. Cleaned Houses Yards &c. Sent two Boats with Salt Casks &c to the Goofe Tent for next Spring Season. In the Evening they returned brought two Hogsheads of Geese. Our Packet returned from Churchill brought the agreable News of the Ships safe departre and all well there. Indians gone and several Families of North River (ie) Nelson River Natives came in to Trade Deer skins Dried meat &c and to get Trust. A few Geese from the Marsh.
Barometer 29.71. Thermometer 42."

Sept. 15
" Sunday Wind NW by W moderate clear weather Divine Service as usual.
Barometer 29.84. Thermometer 41."

" From Mr Mofses Norton Chief at Prince of Wales Fort.
Prince of Wales Fort 7th Sept. 1771
Dear Sir
I embrace this opportunity by your Indians to acquaint you Our Ship departed from hence yesterday noon with a pleasant gale at S West and was soon out of sight. I hope your Ship also sailed safe. If our Sloop should not have sailed before this Packet arrives with You, I shall esteem it a very great favour if You will spare us what Cannon Powder You conveniently can, as our Indent of that Article did not come out this Year which is a great disappointment. We all enjoy Health at present and hope the same Happinefs attends you and all under your Command. One of our Seamen (John Irvin) after a lingering Illnefs Died the Morning the Ship sailed. I wish you general Happinefs attended with a good Winter and plenty of Provisions, and am,
Dear Sir
Your most obedient
humble Servant
Mofes Norton
PS. Myself & Officers present our Compliments to you and the Gentlemen of your Mefs. As I wrote down the Bay by the Sloop, and now having nothing particular to write about; Shall take it as a singular favour, If you will the first opportunity inform them of our being well at this time and of our Ships departure."

Sept. 16
" Monday N by E cloudy weather with little wind. Shifted the Powder and run in the Cannon of the lower Battery from the danger of High Tides. Taylor at work for the Men. All the other Tradesmen employed about their respective Duties for the service of your Honours. Traded and Trusted several Indians.
Barometer 29.98. Thermometer 42."

Sept. 17
" Tuesday Wind W by S moderate weather. Two Men facing the Batteries with Stone: Sloop-Master took up all the Buoys: Sent six Men up the River to bring sticks for Gate Posts for the outer Gate. Several Indians gone and more come in with Deers skins & Fat. A few Geese from Hunters.
Barometer 30.13. Thermometer 42."

Sept. 18
" Wednesday Wind W by N a heavy gale with clear bright weather. A few Deer from Home Natives. Men about necefsary Jobs. Several Indians gone.
Barometer 29.58. Thermometer 61."

Sept. 19
" Thursday Wind NW with a fresh gale and close weather. Men came Home brought eight Sticks for Gate Posts &c. Carpenter & Masons about the Batteries: Smith & Armourer employed in their ways. Taylor at work for the Men. Several Men out of order with Colds. Traded and Trusted several Indians. A few Geese from Hunters. A Cow calved a fine white Cow Calf.
Barometer 30.20. Thermometer 38."

Sept. 20
" Friday Wind NNE a fresh gale with cloudy thick weather and Rain at times. Sent thirteen Men to bring a few of the best Sticks from the Fire-wood for the Repairs of the Fort; not being a Timber Stick or cut Board at the Fort: In the Evening returned with a few poor good for nothing Sticks. They endeavoured to catch the Horse but failed; He having swam acrofs to the South shore. A few Deer and Geese from Hunters.
Barometer 30.19. Thermometer 37."

Sept. 21
" Saturday Wind SSW a strong gale with clear weather. Indians gone off to their respective hunting grounds. Cleaned Houses &c.
Barometer 30.05. Thermometer 37."

Sept. 22
" Sunday Wind N by W a fresh gale with clear weather. Divine Service as usual. A few Geese from Hunters.
Barometer 29.91. Thermometer 38 1/2."

Sept. 23
" Monday Wind SW a strong gale with clear weather. Armourer mending setting Guns: The Others took up the Launch and placed It in frame on the Plantation. A few Geese from Hunters.
Barometer 29.85. Thermometer 56."

Sept. 24
" Tuesday Wind NNW a fresh gale with cloudy rainy weather. Carpenter & Mason finished the Battery. Sent two Boats to the Goofe Tent with Casks and Salt for next Spring Season; and returned in the Evening with the Powder &c the Goofe Season being over. Have killed this Season 1500 Geese. Myself with six Men in the Whale Cutter went fourteen miles up the River to look for Timber and the most convenient Fire-wood; In the Evening returned having found some Timber and Firewood. I would not fall the Timber if it was not wanted greatly for the repairs of York Fort. I am fully resolved to do what service I am capable towards repairing the Fort.
Barometer 29.30. Thermometer 38."

Sept. 25
" Wednesday Wind N by W a fresh gale with cloudy weather. Tradesmen about their duty. The others about various duty. Daily attending the Deer Hedge but nothing stirring.
Barometer 30.15. Thermometer 38."

Sept. 26
" Thursday Wind S by W a small breeze with dark weather. Sent two Boats to the Goofe Tent with Casks & Salt for next Spring Season. Several Men out of order with a Cold. In the Evening the Boats returned.
Barometer 30.18. Thermometer 33."

Sept. 27
" Friday Wind NNE a strong gale with a large flight of Snow. Tradesmen about the necefsary Repairs. Sent a Boat and several Men to take the Horse. Busy trusting the Home Natives and sending them to their Winter Quarters. A few Geese and small Birds to day.
Barometer 29.94. Thermometer 32."

Sept. 28
" Saturday Wind W a fresh gale with clear weather. Men came home brought the Horse all well. Cleaned Houses &c.
Barometer 30.18. Thermometer 35."

Sept. 29
" Sunday Wind West a small breeze with cloudy weather. Divine Service as usual. The Home Natives gone abroad to Trap Furrs. I have got all the Invalids away with them excepting a few helplefs People and three Young Men for service.
Barometer 29.66. Thermometer 37."

Sept. 30
" Monday Wind South a gentle breeze with pleasant weather. in the Evening Thunder Lightning and Rain. Armourer mending Guns: The Smith about several useful Jobs. Taylor at work for the Men. Carpenter & Sawyer new flooring the Cow House. The others cutting Firewood for Self and Officers. I cut a stock at this time as I shall have few Men at Home, excepting Tradesmen. whom I design to keep at their respective duties.
Barometer 29.71. Thermometer 48."

Oct. 1 1771
" Tuesday Wind NE a fresh gale with cloudy weather. Men employed as yesterday. A few Deer and Skins from Home Natives.
Barometer 29.95. Thermometer 44."

Oct. 2
" Wednesday Wind East a fresh gale with cloudy weather. Armourer repairing Guns. Carpenter new flooring the Cow-House. Smith about necefsary Jobs in his way. The Cooper repairing Water Pails. The Taylor at work for the Men. Myself second and the other Men looked over the Warehouses; Removed the Salt Provisions from the back Shed in order next Spring to repair the Floor and make a communication with the Trading Shed, Flanker and other Warehouses appertaining to Trade; That they may be at all times under my immediate Inspection. Indians gone.
Barometer 30.02. Thermometer 37."

Oct. 3
" Thursday Wind NE by E a fresh gale with clear weather. The Tradesmen employed in their way: The other Men cutting Fire-wood. No Deer nigh here.
Barometer 30.02. Thermometer 38."

Oct. 4
" Friday Wind SE close weather with rain at times. Men employed as before.
Barometer 30.14. Thermometer 37 1/2."

Oct. 5
" Saturday Wind NE pleasant weather. Cleaned Houses &c.
Thermometer 35."

Oct. 6
" Sunday Wind SE cloudy dark blowing weather. Divine Service as usual.
Thermometer 39."

Oct. 7
" Monday Wind Easterly clear pleasant weather. Sent sixteen Men abroad to fall Fire-wood and Collect timber also to Fish and snare Rabbets: Gave them seven Weeks Provisions. Tradesmen employed at their respective Trades.
Thermometer 41."

Oct. 8
" Tuesday Wind ESE a small breeze with clear weather. Carpenter has new floored the Cow-House. The others about necefsary Work.
Thermometer 38."

Oct. 9
" Wednesday Wind SE and NW foggy weather. Men about necefsary work.
Thermometer 35."

Oct. 10
" Thursday Wind South a fresh gale with cloudy weather. Men about necefsary Duty.
Barometer 29.57. Thermometer 42."

Oct. 11
" Friday Wind variable from South to SSW a fresh gale with clear weather. Shipwright and one Man putting a new Keel in the Long-boat. Carpenter raising and repairing the Trading Gangway. Armourer repairing Guns. Smith making Iron-work for the Craft. Taylor at work for the Men. A few Fish from the Men at the French creek.
Thermometer 42."

Oct. 12
" Saturday Wind NW a fresh gale with clear weather. Carpenter finished the Trading Gangway. Cleaned Houses &c.
Thermometer 44 1/2."

Oct. 13
" Sunday Wind SW a fresh gale with clear weather. Divine service as usual. Fishermen brought a fine quantity of Pike Methy Perch & Trout. I weighed one Pike viz. ten pounds. One Methy ten pounds. one Perch five pounds.
Thermometer 42."

Oct. 14
" Monday Wind NNW a fresh breeze with cloudy weather. Tradesmen employed about their respective Duties. John Hughes has been in bed these three days past. and I suppose he will continue there all Winter. His Ruptures and Cold being his present Complaints.
Barometer 29.90. Thermometer 40."

Oct. 15
" Tuesday Wind NE a fresh gale with clear weather. Men employed about necefsary Duty. Fishermen returned to their Tents.
Barometer 30.01. Thermometer 36."

Oct. 16
" Wednesday Wind East little wind clear weather. Shipwright has put a new Keel and several plank into the Long-boat; being the last can be done at it this Season. Carpenter and two Men squaring Posts & Nails for the Battery-fence: Armourer cleaning and repairing hunting Guns. Smith making Necefsaries for Master's Cook-room: Taylor at work for the Men. A few Fish from Fishermen over the River. Who returned to their Tent.
Barometer 29.83. Thermometer 34."

Oct. 17
" Thursday Wind W by N a small breeze with close snowing weather. Men about necefsary Duty. John Hughes and Magnus Taylor on the Doctor's List. A few Fish from Fishermen.
Barometer 29.38. Thermometer 34."

Oct. 18
" Friday Wind North a small breeze with close foggy weather. Men employed about various duty. Fishermen returned to their Tents.
Barometer 29.49. Thermometer 36."

Oct. 19
" Saturday Wind E by S a small breeze with cloudy weather and Snow at times. Men cleaned Houses Yards &c. Magnus Taylor in a mending Condition.
Barometer 29.31. Thermometer 35."

Oct. 20
" Sunday Wind North a fresh gale with a heavy flight of Snow. Divine Service as usual.
Barometer 29.05. Thermometer 33."

Oct. 21
" Monday Wind W by S a fresh gale with clear weather. Men cleaned the Yards of Snow.
Barometer 29.37. Thermometer 23."

Oct. 22
" Tuesday Wind SW a strong gale with cloudy weather and Snow at times. Armourer repairing hunting Guns. Carpenter and Sawyer squaring Posts and Rails for the Batteries; their use is intended to keep the Natives & Cattle from the Gun Platform: Lodged our Cattle within doors for the first time this Season. Brewed Table Beer. A large quantity of Fish from our Fishermen. Magnus Taylor growing better.
Barometer 28.72. Thermometer 33."

Oct. 23
" Wednesday Wind NW a fresh gale with clear weather. Ice driving in the River. Men about necefsary Duty.
Barometer 29.09. Thermometer 11."

Oct. 24
" Thursday Wind NW a fresh gale and weather overcast. Tradesmen employed at their respective Duties.
Barometer 29.22. Thermometer 8."

Oct. 25
" Friday Wind SSW a gentle breeze with clear serene weather. Armourer stocking hunting Guns: Taylor at work for the Men. The others about various necefsary Duties. Ice driving thick in the River. A few Rabbets from some Snares set yesterday.
Barometer 29.11. Thermometer 11."

Oct. 26
" Saturday Wind East a fresh gale weather sometimes clear at others overcast. Men cleaned Houses &c. Heavy Ice driving in the River.
Barometer 28.93. Thermometer 21."

Oct. 27
" Sunday Wind NW a small breeze with cloudy dark weather. Divine Service as usual. South Channel froze fast.
Barometer 28.90. Thermometer 14."

Oct. 28
" Monday Wind South a gentle gale with cloudy weather. Armourer stocking hunting Guns. Smith doing necefsary Jobs for Factory service. Cooper making small sleds. Carpenter and Sawyer squaring Rails for the Batteries. Set a few Martin Traps and Snares for Rabbets. caught three Martins. One Beaver from an old Indian Man.
Barometer 28.98. Thermometer 16 1/2."

Oct. 29
" Tuesday Wind S by E a fresh gale with clear weather. Men about necefsary Duty. Two Martens from the Traps.
Barometer 28.61. Thermometer 23."

Oct. 30
" Wednesday Wind NW a gentle breeze with cloudy snowey weather. Armourer stocking hunting Guns. Carpenter making a writing Desk. Smith making Handles and Hinges for the same. Taylor at work for Trade. Cooper and two Men making small Sleds. No Rabbets to be got.
Barometer 28.29. Thermometer 31."

Oct. 31
" Thursday Wind SSE a fresh gale with cloudy weather. Men about necefsary Duty. A few Partridges to day.
Thermometer 35."

Nov. 1 1771
" Friday Wind West a fresh gale with cloudy snowey weather. South channel broke up. Men about necefsary Duty. Two Martins from the Traps and a few Rabbets from the Snares.
Thermometer 36."

Nov. 2
" Saturday Wind NW a small breeze with clear weather. Men cleaned Houses &c.
Barometer 29.77. Thermometer 17 1/2."

Nov. 3
" Sunday Wind East a small breeze with clear weather. Divine Service as Usual.
Barometer 29.69. Thermometer 24."

Nov. 4
" Monday Wind E by S a gentle breeze and overcast weather. Armourer stocking hunting Guns: Carpenter and Cooper making small sleds. Two Taylors at work for Trade. Shipwright making Thowels for the Boats. A few Rabbets from the Snares and one Marten from the Traps. A little Ice driving in the River.
Barometer 30.17. Thermometer 29."

Nov. 5
" Tuesday Wind East a fresh gale with close weather. Colours flying and a Bone-fire in the Evening in remembrance of the Day.
Barometer 30.32. Thermometer 27."

Nov. 6
" Wednesday Wind ESE a fresh gale with clear weather. About 7 minutes after Twelve O'Clock came on the Eclipse of the Sun and went off 40 1/2 minutes after One exactly. Men about necefsary Duty. A few Partridges to day. An Indian Child died of a Consumption.
Barometer 29.99. Thermometer 26."

Nov. 7
" Thursday Wind SE a gentle breeze overcast. Armourer stocking hunting Guns. Smith repairing the Iron work of the Wooding-sled. Carpenter about necefsary Jobs. Sawyer hewing Timber. Shipwright making Thowels. Taylors at work for Trade. Cooper and several others making small Sleds. Three Martins from the Traps. no Rabbets or Partridges to be got.
Barometer 30.01. Thermometer 23."

Nov. 8
" Friday Wind South a fresh gale with cloudy weather. Men about necefsary Duty.
Barometer 30.01. Thermometer 23."

Nov. 9
" Saturday Wind E by S a fresh gale with a heavy flight of Snow. Men cleaned Houses Yards &c.
Barometer 29.55. Thermometer 24."

Nov. 10
" Sunday Wind N by W a fresh gale with a continuance of Snow with Drift. Divine Service as usual.
Barmometer 29.58. Thermometer 29."

Nov. 11
" Monday Wind NW by N a fresh gale with a continuance of Snow. Men with the Horses cleaning the Yards of Snow. Killed an old Bull for Winter Stock.
Barometer 29.94. Thermometer 16 1/2."

Nov. 12
" Tuesday Wind NNE a small breeze with clear weather. Armourer stocking hunting Guns. Carpenter making two Window-frames. Smith making Hinges & Hooks for the same. Taylors at work for Trade. The others making small Sleds. A few Partridges from Hunters. A white Bear seen to day about one hundred Yards from the Fort; but as the Indians were abroad hunting Partridges, He went off unmolested.
Barometer 30.16. Thermometer 7."

Nov. 13
" Wednesday Wind ENE a fresh gale with Snow and Drift. Men about necefsary Duty.
Barometer 29.67. Thermometer 23."

Nov. 14
" Thursday Wind N by E a fresh gale with Snow at times. Men about necefsary Duty. A few Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 29.76. Thermometer 22."

Nov. 15
" Friday Wind NW a fresh gale with Snow at times. Men about necefsary Duty. A few Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 29.81. Thermometer 10."

Nov. 16
" Saturday Wind S by W a fresh gale with a continuance of Snow. Men cleaned Houses &c. Thomas Haddle the Overseer of the Wooders came home, brought twenty Rabbets and informed me that they have cut down a good Winters firing; in which are several Timber pieces and well grown Sticks; All which are cut into proper Lengths and will be of great service in Repairing of York Fort. At the same time several Hunters came home for small Sleds, brought one Deer, twenty Rabbets, forty-five Fish & one coloured Fox.
Barometer 29.70. Thermometer 13."

Nov. 17
" Sunday Wind WNW a fresh gale with clear weather. Divine Service as usual. Saw nine Deer walking along the South shore; sent two Indians after them. Information from our Hunters on the Eastern Shore; all well there, and have been pretty succefsful in Fish & Rabbets.
Barometer 29.94. Thermometer 10 1/2."

Nov. 18
" Monday Wind NW by W a gentle breeze with clear weather. All Hands with the Horses cleaning the Yards of Snow. Sent three Men up the River with Dogs to afsist the Hunters in bringing Home the Provisions they have caught.
Barometer 29.93. Thermometer 12."

Nov. 19
" Tuesday Wind NW a small breeze with clear weather. Men cleaning the yards of Snow and set four Guns for Foxes &c along the Shore. The Two Indians returned; would not come up with the Deer but brought a few Partridges. The South Channel fast abreast of the Fort. The North Channel fast two miles above.
Barometer 29.92. Thermometer 8 1/2."

Nov. 20
" Wednesday Wind SW a gentle breeze with clear weather. Men brewed small Beer and took up half the Deer snares; got one Deer in the Hedge. Two Men came home brought two Sleds Loaded with Fish. One sick Man returned with them from the Wooders. A few Partridges from the Indians.
Barometer 30.00. Thermometer -2 1/2."

Nov. 21
" Thursday Wind SSW a fresh gale with cloudy weather. Men cleaned Houses. Wooders and Up-River Hunters came home, brought one & a quarter Deer, Seventy-seven Rabbets, Two Hundred & Fifty-five Fish, Nine Martins and two coloured Foxes.
Barometer 29.82. Thermometer +15."

Nov. 22
" Friday Wind N by E a strong gale with Snow & Drift. Men grinding Oatmeal and preparing to go abroad again. A few Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 29.75. Thermometer +16."

Nov. 23
" Saturday Wind W by S a fresh gale with clear weather. Men and Horses cleaned the yards of Snow. Our Eastern Hunters came home brought forty-five Rabbets and five Martins. A few Partridges from our Hunters.
Barometer 30.09. Thermometer +5 1/2."

Nov. 24
" Sunday Wind SW a fresh breeze. Divine Service as usual. Fifty Rabbets and One Hundred & Thirty fish from the Eastern Hunters.
Barometer 29.73. Thermometer +5 1/2."

Nov. 25
" Monday Wind SW a gentle breeze with close weather. Sent William Lockey and nineteen Men up the River to haul Fire-wood & Timber. Sent Mr Cocking and two Indians to Stoney River to hunt Partridges and to endeavour to kill Foxes. Sawyers preparing to saw stuff for Factory service. Armourer stocking hunting Guns. Cooper and John Hughes making and repairing small Sleds. Taylor at work for Trade. And one Man attending the Guns & Traps. One white Fox and thirteen Partridges to day.
Barometer 29.85. Thermometer +2."

Nov. 26
" Tuesday Wind NNW a fresh breeze with cloudy weather and a little Snow. Men about necefsary Duty. A few Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 29.71. Thermometer +8."

Nov. 27
" Wednesday Wind NW a fresh breeze with a little snow. Armourer Stocking hunting Guns. Cooper and one Man making small Sleds. Taylor at work for Trade. Sawyer employed cutting Plank for repairing the Battery Platform at the Fort. Several of the homeguard Indians came in and brought a few Martins Foxes Fish and Rabbits.
Barometer 29.62. Thermometer +9."

Nov. 28
" Thursday Wind NW a fresh gale with Snow and Drift. Men employed about necefsary Duty. The River froze over two miles below the Fort.
Barometer 29.80. Thermometer +0 3/4."

Nov. 29
" Friday Wind NW a fresh gale with clear weather. Men about necefsary duty.
Barometer 30.23. Thermometer -28."

Nov. 30
" Saturday Wind WSW a fresh breeze with clear weather. Men put salt Provisions in the River to freshen. Sent one Man and an Indian Boy for his Guide up to the Wooders. Two of the Wooders came home with Dogs to haul some Provisions they had left behind.
Barometer 30.22. Thermometer -33."

Dec. 1 1771
" Sunday Wind SW a fresh breeze with clear weather. Divine Service as usual. Wooders returned to their Tent. A few Partridges from the Indians.
Barometer 29.98. Thermometer -37."

Dec. 2
" Monday Wind West a gentle breeze with clear weather. Armourer stocking hunting Guns. Taylor at work for Trade. Sawyer cutting plank for Factory use. Cooper making small Sleds. a man was brought Home from the Wooders Tent with his face Froze; but the Surgeon is of opinion he is more afraid than hurt.
Barometer 29.98. Thermometer -36."

Dec. 3
" Tuesday Wind WNW a fresh breeze with clear weather.Men Employed as yesterday The unseasoned Fellow who came home yesterday in a frozen fright has received very little damage; His Face being only a little Blister'd and tumefied; a thing frequent and disregarded in Hudson's Bay. his two Conductors returned to the woods. Received a few Partridges from Hunters. Sent off two Young Indians for Severn to enquire after the Health of our Southern Friends.
Barometer 30.09. Thermometer -16."

" To Mr Christopher Atkinson Master at Severn House.
York Fort 2d Dec. 1771.
Sir,
I Embrace this early opportunity to inquire after the welfare of Severn House; Hope You and all under your Command are well. A violent Cold has been raging among us this Autumn, but is now going off as the winter draws on. You may keep the Bricklayer until you come yourself, so that he may thoroughly finish what may be wanting. Have sent you inclosed part of the Nineteenth Paragraph of this years General Letter which concerns the Servants Trappings &c. If you stand in need of any thing send for it in the Spring and I shall send it you. I think it necefsary to inform you to be here by the 10th August; To leave William Tomison in charge of the House and to bring away none others except the Bricklayer and Thomas Robinson whose time expires next Ship-time.

As nothing strange has happened since our parting I conclude wishing you much succefs.
and am
Sir
Your humble Servant
Andrew Graham
P.S. Our Compliments of the Season attend You Mr Falconer & all Friends at Severn. The standing payment for a YF S Packet is thirty-five Beaver each Person. Have sent two Viz. Mocoppy and Afsinish. if any accompanies them pay no Regard."



" To Mr Humphrey Marten Chief at Albany Fort
York Fort 2d Dec. 1771
Dear Friend,
By the return of the Severn Sloop August 1st I received your kind favour. Hope You and all under your Command enjoy a continuance of Health. Thank God We are all well here after having been plagued with a raging Cold this Autumn. Captains Christopher and Fowler arrived and sailed safe. Mr Jacobs has made another Trip to England with a firm resolution to return to return again, however I am once more a Governor. At present busy in collecting Fire-wood & Timber. If pofsible I design to repair the Upper and Front Sheds, make and fix a new Outer Gate and Flag-staff; and lastly to finish my Course in endeavouring to Enlarge the Trade of York Fort. More News still. Mr Atkinson is Master of Severn House.

I hope you have got your Dwelling Flanker finished. Your kindnefs to Mr Falconer and your supplying us with Cattle; was done like Mr Martens self. Thanks. I hope Captain Richards arrived & sailed safe in due time. Prosperity accompany all your Undertakings, continue to be the wishes of
Dear Friend
Your obliged humble Servant
Andrew Graham
P.S. The Gentlemen of the Mefs wish you Health &c. Have sent the Churchill Letters."



" To Mr John Garbut Chief at Moofe Fort
York Fort 2d Dec. 1771
Dear Sir,
I received your kind favour by Mr Falconer August 1st and Your valuable present the Cattle; for whch I return thanks. I hope You and all under Your Command enjoy Health Peace and Plenty; which blefsing We all enjoy here, thank God; excepting flying Colds which are now walking off. I hope Captain Richards arrived and sailed safe. The two Ships this way went off safe; in one of which went Mr Jacobs: Mr Atkinson is master of Severn House.

You fitted out the Severn Sloop with Provisions &c in abundance; that Mr Falconer and his Company return you their grateful Thanks, also accept of mine. I Conclude sincerely wishing You Succefs in all you undertakings and Remain.
Dear Sir
Your very humble Servant
Andrew Graham
P.S. Remember Noodaway River. Mefs Cocking & Hutchin's wish you Health &c."

Dec. 4
" Wednesday Wind W by S a gentle breeze with clear weather. Men Beaconed the River and set Traps and Guns on the oposite Shore as usual.
Barometer 30.21. Thermometer -10."

Dec. 5
" Thursday Wind SSW a moderate gale with Snow at times. A. Men employed as formerly. A few Partridges from Hunters. Barometer 29.62. Thermometer -7."

Dec. 6
" Friday Wind SW a fresh gale with continued Snow. The Men about various Jobs. Myself & Surgeon went fourteen miles up the River to view the Wooders. Received a few Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 29.39. Thermometer +4."

Dec. 7
" Saturday Wind WNW a strong gale with Snow & Drifting weather. Men employed taking Provisions out of the River, cleaning Yards, Houses &c. Myself & Surgeon accompanied with the Pataroon of the Wooders and two more came home. In our way We surveyed other parts in search of Timber & Firewood; We found plenty of the latter but only a few of the former interspersed. Received a few Partridges from the Home hunters and 180 from the Eastern Hunters, white Foxes 2; also two Martins from one of the Wooders. Thomas Maddeson who has been troubled with Rheumatick and other Complaints since his arrival. Is now in a Consumptive State unable to do Duty.
Barometer 29.50. Thermometer -3."

Dec. 8
" Sunday Wind W by S a fresh breeze with clear weather. Divine Service as usual. Men returned to Wooding Tent. Received a few Partridges from Home Hunters.
Barometer 29.83. Thermometer -12."

Dec. 9
" Monday Wind SW a small breeze with cloudy weather. Armourer Stocking Hunting Guns. Taylor at work for Trade. Two Men squaring Timber. Sawyers sawing ditto. One Man making small Sleds. Steward attending the setting-guns. Eastern Hunters returned to the Tent. Received a few Partridges from home Hunters. Put more Provisions into the river.
Barometer 29.55. Thermometer 0."

Dec. 10
" Tuesday Wind WNW a gentle gale with clear weather. Men employed as yesterday. Received a few Partridges from the home Hunters and 115 from the Eastern Hunters, with one coloured Fox. In the afternoon Hunters returned to their Tents.
Barometer 29.65. Thermometer -5."

Dec. 11
" Wednesday Wind WNW a moderate breeze with hazy weather. Men about necefsary duty. Thomas Maddeson still Ill and not able to work.
Barometer 29.78. Thermometer -17."

Dec. 12
" Thursday Wind NW a gentle breeze with clear weather. Men about necefsary duty. Received a few Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 29.98. Thermometer -21."

Dec. 13
" Friday Wind SW a fresh gale with clear weather. Men employed taking Provisions out and cleaning the Water-hole. Two of the Wooders came home for Sleds. Businefs going on chearfully at that place. Sent two Indians to break open a Beaver House twelve miles up the River.
Barometer 29.70. Thermometer -5."

Dec. 14
" Saturday Wind SW a gentle gale with close weather cleaned Houses Yards &c.
Barometer 29.26. Thermometer +18."

Dec. 15
" Sunday Wind WNW a fresh breeze with clear weather. Divine Service as usual. The two Indians returned and brought three young Beaver. I am informed the Old ones were Shot in the Summer. Wooders returned to their Tent.
Barometer 29.87. Thermometer -1."

Dec. 16
" Monday Wind SW a moderate gale with clear weather. Put more Provisions in the River to freshen and hauled the Snow out of the yard. Received one Fox and a few Partridges from Hunters. Put up the following Orders in the Guard Room Viz.

Whereas The throwing of Urine, Water and other things out of the windows of the several Cabbins in the Fort, together with driving Nails and hanging divers Things on the outside; is not only a Nusance in itself, but detrimental to the Building. This is to give notice, that no one presume to do the like again on any pretence whatsoever. - And Whereas within these few years it has been customary to empty Urine, Brine, Water and Rubbish in the Mens Garden; thereby preventing the use formerly made of that Ground (which was, that the Company's Servants might cultivate Vegetables, and live as comfortable as pofsible in the Country) It is therefore ordered, that henceforth this Practice be discontinued; and, that no Person throw Urine Rubbish or Water against any part of the Fort or Gangways.
Signed,
Andrew Graham
Barometer 29.35. Thermometer +18."

Dec. 17
" Tuesday Wind NW a fresh gale with close weather. Armourer stocking hunting Guns. Taylor at work for Trade. Cooper repairing Sleds. Two Men white-washing under the Mens windows, the plaistering being stained by throwing Urine &c out of them. The other Men employed with the Horse and cleaning the Yards of Snow. Received Seventy Partridges and one coloured Fox from the Eastern Hunters.
Barometer 29.69. Thermometer +7."

Dec. 18
" Wednesday Wind W by N a gentle breeze with clear weather. Men employed as yesterday. Received a few Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 30.02. Thermometer -7 1/2."

Dec. 19
" Thursday Wind NW a fresh gale with hazy weather. Brewed small Beer being the fifth time since Ship-time. Received a few Partridges and one Marten from Hunters.
Barometer 29.94. Thermometer -17."

Dec. 20
" Friday Wind NW a gentle gale with hazy weather. Men about necefsary duty. Sent One man and an Indian to Mr Cockings Tent to afsist in bringing home Partridges.
Barometer 30.18. Thermometer -18."

Dec. 21
" Saturday Wind NW a strong gale with clear weather. Cleaned Houses Yards &c. Wooders came home having falled sprigged and carried to the Bank the next winters Firewood; In which are above two hundred pieces of Timber and many serviceable Sticks. The reason of cutting down Timber at this time; (not one Timber-Stick, Plank, or Board at York Fort) is to repair the Fort. Eastern Hunters came home brought 210 Partridges, One Marten, three coloured and three white Foxes.
Barometer 30.27. Thermometer -23."

Dec. 22
" Sunday Wind NW a fresh gale with clear weather. Divine Service as usual.
Barometer 30.46. Thermometer -11."

Dec. 23
" Monday Wind SW a moderate gale with clear weather. Men took the Provisions out of the Water-hole and did several other Jobs. Thomas Maddeson something better but Magnus Taylor still in a declining way. A few Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 30.39. Thermometer -19."

Dec. 24
" Tuesday Wind NW gentle gale with hazy weather. Men about necefsary duty. A few Partridges to day.
Barometer 29.53. Thermometer +5."

Dec. 25
" Wednesday Wind W by N a fresh gale with clear weather. In the morning the Men saluted the Fort as usual, and in the forenoon, Divine Service proper for the day; a full Congregation and all the Men in good Order.
Barometer 30.08. Thermometer -14."

Dec. 26
" Thursday Wind SSE a gentle breeze close weather. Men all in decent good Order. Packet returned from Severn all well there.
Barometer 29.39. Thermometer +4."

" From Mr Christopher Atkinson Master at Severn House
Severn House Dec. 14d 1771
Good Sir,
Your kind Favour Came Safe to hand in Due time for which I return you my thanks. We arived hear the Eight of Sept. Safe and at present are all well but the Bricklayer Who has been Sick and bad with Sore Legs Sinces the 9 of otober I got most of the bricklaers Work Don be fore he was taken bad. I am Glad to hear that your Colds is going off. i shall Take notice of that part of the nineteenth Paragraph which Concerns the Servants Trapings I hope we Shall Stand in need of Nothing but if I Should Shall Send in the spring I Shall God willing accidents Excepted be at york Fort by 10th of august and shall Leave William Tomison In Charge of the house and shall bring none but the Sloops Company Bricklaer and Tho. Robertson have had a Poor fall of provision partridge Rabbits and Fish Scarcest I ever knew her is nothing new Her So Shall Subscribe my Self good Sir your humble obedt.
Servt. Christop atkinson.
PS. Our Compliments and the Compliments of the approaching Season attend all our Friends at York Fort."

" The above is a true Copy."

Dec. 27
" Friday Wind NW by W fresh gale with clear weather. Gave the Men leave to make and mend their cloathing. All quiet sober Servants. I find our Severn Friends have left a cask of English Brandy No. 133 containing One Hundred & six gallons, which we have found to be in our Warehouse and shall be delivered the first opportunity. It matters not, as at this present time there is two years Stock of Brandy at Severn House; But I beg leave to observe that this grofs Mistake was owing neither to the Indefatigable Mefs Jacobs Cocking or myself; but to the Master of Severn House, who should have looked better after his Duty. Since I have been Master of Severn House I made it always my particular study to see that every Article for Severn was put on board the Sloop. The above Cask of Liquor was marked off by Mr Cocking in the Yard, but afterwards neglected to be put down to the Launch.
Barometer 29.95. Thermometer -18."

Dec. 28
" Saturday Wind West a strong gale with clear weather. Men cleaned Houses Yards &c. Magnus Taylor in a weak condition.
Barometer 29.67. Thermometer -19."

Dec. 29
" Sunday Wind W by N a fresh gale with close weather. Divine Service as usual. Twelve Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 29.53. Thermometer -12."

Dec. 30
" Monday Wind NW a gentle gale with close weather. Sent Mr Cocking and two Indians acrofs the Island to mark out a Path for the North River Indians. The other Men beating a Path for the Horses to haul Wood through from behind the Fort. One Marten one Fox and a few Partridges to day. Magnus Taylor in a weak condition.
Barometer 29.65. Thermometer -27."

Dec. 31
" Tuesday Wind SW a fresh gale with clear weather. Men Employed as yesterday. In the Evening rung out the old Year.
Barometer 29.87. Thermometer -36."

Jan. 1 1772
" Wednesday Wind SW a moderate gale cloudy weather with Snow at times. Rung in the New Year and Saluted the Fort as usual. Men at innocent mirth, all good Company.
Barometer 29.80 Thermometer -15."

Jan. 2
" Thursday Wind SW a small breeze with close weather. Men brought in Firewood and did other necefsary Jobs.
Barometer 29.91. Thermometer -2."

Jan. 3
" Friday Wind WNW a fresh gale with clear weather. Men cut Fire-wood. A few Partridges to day.
Barometer 30.12. Thermometer -18."

Jan. 4
" Saturday Wind West a moderate breeze with clear weather. Men ground Oatmeal; and several got ready to go a Partridge and Fox-Hunting.
Barometer 30.29. Thermometer -22."

Jan. 5
" Sunday Wind SW a gentle breeze with clear weather. Divine Service as usual. Three Men went to Ship River to kill Foxes and Partridges. A few Partridges to day. Sent a Packet to Churchill.
Barometer 30.08. Thermometer -12."

Jan. 6
" Monday Wind East a moderate breeze with close Snowing weather. This morning sent several Men abroad to kill Foxes & Partridges. Armourer stocking hunting Guns. Carpenter making Hay-Rakes. Sawyers sawing Boards. Taylors at work for Trade. four Men with the Horses hauling Fire-wood. A few Partridges to day.
Barometer 29.72. Thermometer 0."

" To Mr Mofes Norton Chief at Prince of Wales Fort.
York Fort 6th Jan. 1772
Dear Sir,
The Season returning of enquiring after our Neighbouring Friends. I with pleasure take up my Pen, hoping to hear Mr Norton and all under his Command are in Health; Which blefsing thank God We enjoy here at present; one young Man excepted who Labours under a gentle decay. In the Fall the major part of us were attacked with a violent Cold, and that is flying among the Natives at this time. We had a few Geese killed. No Venison but above 1000 lb of clean Deers Fat; and since very well for Fish & Rabbets. We are now going in pursuit of those serviceable Birds the Partridges; hope they will favour both of Us. My Packet is returned from Severn, all well there; But no news from the Bay. I have (as desired) acquainted the Bay Gentlemen of Your welfare and Ships departure. It will give me great satisfaction to hear your Sloop arrived safe at Churchill and that You received every thing in good Condition. The arrival of your last Letter after Mr Johnston's departure, was of no detriment; As it would not have been in my power to have supplyed you more amply with Cannon Powder; my general Charge being no more than 600 lb. great part of which was expended last Fall. You may depend on my readinefs to serve you on every occasion. And am Dear Sir,
Your obedient
humble Servant
Andrew Graham
P.S. The Gentlemen of the Mefs join with me in wishing Mr Norton and his Officers the Compliments of the Season. I have killed a tough Bull; Have sent you a taste of him."

Jan. 7
" Tuesday Wind East a strong gale with Drift & Snow. Armourer stocking hunting Guns. Shipwright about necefsary Jobs in his way. Carpenter making Hay-rakes. Sawyers cutting stuff. Taylor at work for Trade. Four Men with the Horses hauling Fire-wood. Thomas Maddeson and Magnus Taylor in a declining way. Have done little duty since Shiptime. One white Fox to day and a few Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 29.29. Thermometer +13."

Jan. 8
" Wednesday Wind NE a strong gale with Snow. Men employed as yesterday. A few Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 29.29. Thermometer +7."

Jan. 9
" Thursday Wind NW a moderate gale with clear weather.Men employed as yesterday. A few Partridges and one red Fox to day.
Barometer 29.39. Thermometer -4."

Jan. 10
" Friday Wind SSE a moderate breeze close weather with Snow at times. Men employed as formerly.
Barometer 29.71. Thermometer 0."

Jan. 11
" Saturday Wind SSE a small breeze with clear weather. Men and Horses hauling Fire-wood and cleaning the Yards of Snow.
Barometer 29.96. Thermometer -15."

Jan. 12
" Sunday Wind NE a strong gale with Snow & Drift. Divine Service as usual. Magnus Taylor in a declining State and Thomas Maddeson quite unserviceable with the Rheumatism &c.
Barometer 29.73. Thermometer +4."

Jan. 13
" Monday Wind N by E a heavy gale with drifting weather and Snow at times. The Armourer stocking hunting Guns. Smith and his Mate at the Forge. Carpenter making Hay-Rakes. Taylor at work for Trade. The other Men picking Oakum.
Barometer 29.50. Thermometer 0."

Jan. 14
" Tuesday Wind NW a strong gale with clear weather. Men employed as yesterday.
Barometer 29.63. Thermometer -33."

Jan. 15
" Wednesday Wind NNW a fresh gale with clear weather. Tradesmen about necefsary Duty. Three Men with Horses hauling Firewood. John Hughes, Thomas Maddeson and Magnus Taylor picking Oakum. This morning sent William Lockey with three Indian Lads to the Southward to trap Martens. And Thomas Haddle & James Allen with three other Indian Lads to the Eastward on the same Employ. An Indian Man with his Family came in with a few Martens and for Relief for some other Families of Home Indians who are in great distrefs up the North River. Shall afsist them with Necefsaries, and Encourage them to wait the crofsing of the Deer & to trap Martens, which is far preferable to having them laying on the Plantation. At Seven O'Clock this Evening James Rofs came home in a terrible condition. His Fingers & Toes being froze solid, also the end of his Nose. The Account I can get from him at present (being in a weak Condition) is, "That his two Companions John Farrant and James Thompson (Persons I had sent with him to Hunt Partridges over the North River) are Dead. He says that the Ice on the North River had given way with them, and he himself narrowly escaped on Shore by getting upon the Ground Ice." The two Young Men who were sent the day before these Men went from the Factory with a Packet for Prince of Wales Fort; I find on enquiry went higher up the River before they attempted to crofs; So am in great hopes they are safe.
Barometer 29.73. Thermometer -19."

Jan. 16
" Thursday Wind NW a moderate gale with clear weather. Tradesmen at their Duty. Three Men with Horses hauling Firewood. Three Invalids picking Oakum. Myself and others taking an Account of the two Unfortunate Mens Effects. Sent three Indians with a Dog in search of their Remains. Surgeon drefsed James Rofs, and informs Me the Gangrene has invaded most of the Fingers and Toes, both the Heels and tip of the Nose; and is likely to advance further. I have at Intervals gathered from him the following Account of the unfortunate Affair. Viz. "He says That Himself James Thompson and John Farrant Lay the night after they went from the Factory (being Monday the 6th Instant) about four miles below where Flamborough House lately stood. The next morning about Eight or Nine O'Clock they set off to crofs Port Nelson right off from thence; the smoak of open Water being far below them: They had walked a considerable time and at last wondered to find they went down the River so much until loking about they perceived the open water above as well as below them; a clear proof that they were adrift. They had their Sleds loaded with Provisons & Necefsaries and two dogs with them. The Ice they were on was a large smooth Field. The Ebb carried them out and the Flood brought them in again the next morning; but not so high as where they first went adrift. They were carried out of the River and in again, and were thus the sport of the Tides for three days succefsively; but each day lower down than the preceeding. They had some Cake in the Baggage which had been baked on Sunday at the Factory, and a bottle with about a quart of Gin; of these they took now and then a little. On the fourth day they drove out to Sea, and were alternately off and on the Coast until the Sixth day. I reckon from Tuesday when they first went upon the river. The Dunter Geese and other Sea foul flocked about them in the Bay. The weather all the time was very mild. The Field of Ice ( I should have mentioned) broke on the fourth day. however they were not seperated from the Sleds or each other. They frequently walked to and fro to keep themselves warm, laying under the Tent-Cloth they had with them when they lay down to sleep. On Saturday they Ice seemed to Jam and they had hopes of getting on shore, tho' ignorent where they were, having seen Land to the Northward which they thought was towards Cape Churchill; and again to the Eastward which they supposed to be the Eastern Shore. They accordingly set off; James Rofs having taken a Blanket, a Shirt, his Gun, some Ammunition, and the first Skipper tog'ger (a little bag with fire tackling) that he laid his hand upon, also a little Sugar which they had with them. John Farrant took a Beaver Coat, but James Thompson took nothing; only running on before in hopes of getting to Land. As they were jumping from piece to piece of the Ice, John Farrant mifsed his leap and fell into the water and was near being carried under the Ice before his Companions could catch hold and haul him out. They immediately stripped him and put on him the dry Shirt which James Rofs had with him and belted the Beaver Coat about him. After this they found their attempt was in vain, for they found they could not get on shore and to add to their misfortune, on looking round, they see the Sleds with their necefsaries driving down with the Tide, and one of the dogs which would not follow them tearing at the Sleds for Food. When they found the water would not let them go on shore they remained upon the piece of Ice they were then upon. and which was afterwards found to be grounded. John Farrant laid down, and they placed pieces of shelving Ice round him to keep of the weather; but in the morning the Flood came and overflowed the Ice; They urged John Farrant to arise but to no purpose for he was near dead; and accordingly Expired, being Sunday the sixth day. James Thomspn having seen a Seal come up out of the water upon the piece of Ice they were on; He urged James Rofs to shoot at it as it seemed to make towards the dead Body; but he refused, saying he expected soon to be in the same situation. The Ice this unfortunate Man (James Rofs) believes afterwards floated but grounded in another place out of sight of Land. the weather growing thick with Snow & Drift yet still mild. James Rofs and James Thompson then left the Corps leaping from piece to piece until the Flood came again and confined them to one piece. James Thompson's Hands had swelled so much that they could not be got into his mittens, his face was also greatly swelled; he afterwards lay down being quite worn out & spent; saying he believed he could live if he had but Victuals; He afterwards became delirious, for on James Rofs telling him they would get home in two days time; He answered, What such a place?[his question mark] naming a place in the Orknies where he belonged. He died soon after being Monday the seventh Day about midnight; the water afterwards drove a large piece of Ice over his Body upon which James Rofs with difficulty got and staid until the Tide had fallen; He then pursued his attempt to get on shore, directing his course by the Sun which happened to appear; and in the afternoon on Tuesday the eight day He reached the North Shore of Hays's Island, just where a path was cut strait to the Fort, and about three and a half miles long; but immagining himself upon the Eastern Shore he unfortunately mistook this opening for Stoney River. He therefore went along the shore until he came above the Burnt Tent (The place where Persons who are going to crofs Port Nelson from the Factory always come out to go along the Shore) when I presume he found where he was and knew he had pafsed the Track; for he turned back and struck in when he came to it. Here he attempted to kindle a Fire, but found he had no Tinder; he then tried with his Gun but without succefs. In this employ he froze his fingers a little, his feet were somewhat numbed before he had reached the shore. However he broke down some small branches of Trees and laid down on the outer Drift; where he spent the night having made water several times. He was all the next day (Wednesday) in coming to the Fort, tho' only five miles three quarters. His extreem weaknefs caused him to fall very often which froze his hands more and filled his mittens with Snow. In this Condition he got to the gate of the Fort about seven in the Evening (as I mentioned yesterday) when he loaded & discharged his Gun to make us hear him and was directly after let In. I should have mentioned that the dog which followed these unfortunate Men when they left their Sleds staid with James Rofs all the while and come home with Him." - It is surprizing that this unfortunate Man survived at all, and more so that he escaped so well, but he was the strongest Man of the three. He had been Tenting at North River for three winters past, and had now with him two Men well versed in the ways of the Country; But who can resist the decrees of the Almighty?[his] He seems to Lament himself greatly that they attempted to crofs the River where they did, saying he was overuled by the others. But he was very wrong in taking the advice of them as he was the Pataroon, knowing the River well, and his Companions being quiet willing Men who I beleive would not have acted contrary to his directions if he had insisted on going higher up the River to Crofs.
Barometer 30.02. Thermometer -24 1/2."

Jan. 17
" Friday Wind SW a moderate breeze with clear weather. Tradesmen at their Duty. Invalids picking Oakum. Two Men with the Horses hauling Firewood. Indians returned but could not find the Remains of the unfortunate Men. They found James Rofs's Track where he had come on shore; which they followed upon the Ice until it was unsafe for them to proceed any further, so returned. James Rofs much as before. The Mortification advanced only a little in the Nose.
Barometer 30.04. Thermometer -25."

Jan. 18
" Saturday Wind NW a moderate gale with clear weather. Men cut Firewood. Hunters came home brought Eighty Partridges, two Foxes and one Marten. James Rofs worse than before.
Barometer 30.00. Thermometer -41."

Jan. 19
" Sunday Wind SW a moderate breeze with clear weather. Divine Service as usual. One Hunter returned to his Tent seven miles from the Fort. Thomas Haddle one of the Eastern Trappers came home with an Indian. the latter being ill of a Cold which has raged here since Ship-time. The Indians that arrived on Wednesday returned to their Families. I cannot in justice avoid mentioning that York Fort is at present in a very weak and helplefs Condition in regard to Men; It being reduced by so many of the old Servants returning home and by the lofs of Accidents which has happened within a Year and a half. The remainder are either Invalids or mostly strangers, unable to Hunt or do the usual service abroad; for out of the whole Compliment there are not above four people that know how to use the Gun. There are nineteen of us at the Fort at present including myself & Surgeon. and yet are hardly able to keep themselves in Firing. James Rofs much as yesterday.
Barometer 29.97. Thermometer - The Mercury was sunk into the Bulb of the Thermometer. But on bringing It up to my Room It rose +69."

Jan. 20
" Monday Wind N by E a fresh gale with drifting weather. The rest of the Hunters returned to their Tents. Ordered Thomas Haddle to bring his Partners home; As they will not be able to make any great matters out; their best man being sick. Armourer stocking hunting Guns. Sawyers cutting Boards. Taylor at work for Trade. Three Invalids picking Oakum. Two Men with the Horses hauling Firewood. Two Men with the Surgeon attending the unfortunate James Rofs. Poor Man, he will lose most of his Toes and Fingers, and I am afraid afterwards his Life. A great misfortune; He was a sober able Servant, had been Tenting on the North Shore some years before and was now going as Pataroon. The two deceased Persons had been down the Bay and were good able Servants, having a thorough knowledge of the Country Duty. One Fox to day.
Barometer 29.63. Thermometer -16."

Jan. 21
" Tuesday Wind W by S a moderate gale with clear weather. Men employed as yesterday. James Rofs in a malancholy Condition. Magnus Taylor and Thomas Maddeson continue laid up. The first in a gentle Decay, and the latter the same attended with the Rheumatism.
Barometer 29.97. Thermometer -30."

Jan. 22
" Wednesday Wind N by E a gentle gale with a great Rime from the Sea. Men Employed as yesterday. James Rofs an object of pity. Two Foxes to day.
Barometer 29.80. Thermometer -22."

Jan. 23
" Thursday Wind NNW a moderate gale with clear weather. Sawyers cutting Boards. The others attended the Surgeon, who amputated all the Fingers and Thumbs of the unfortunate James Rofs.
Barometer 29.99. Thermometer - The Mercury within half an Inch of the Bulb of Thermometer. At 2 O'Clock It was at -55 & At 3 O'Clock, at 33.-"

Jan. 24
" Friday Wind W by S a moderate breeze with Rimy weather. Tradesmen employed about their respective duties. Invalids and others attending the unfortunate James Rofs. who is in a better Condition than could be expected after yesterdays Operation. Thomas Haddle & Partners returned home.
Barometer 29.97. Thermometer -29 1/2."

Jan. 25
" Saturday Wind N by W a moderate gale with clear weather. Men cut Firewood. Mr Cocking with one man came from Stoney River, having caught a severe cold. I shall send Indians to kill Partridges as there are very few Englishmen who have any knowledge of the Gun; and even those in this scarce Season are so far from bringing Provisions that they cannot supply themselves two days pr Week. James Rofs much the same as yesterday.
Barometer 30.48. Thermometer - The Mercury in the Thermometer as on Thursday. At 3 1/2 O'Clock Thermometer -28 & at 6 O'Clock -30."

Jan. 26
" Sunday Wind South a fresh gale with close weather. Divine Service as usual. Mr Cocking something better. James Rofs much the same. He greatly Laments the lofs of his Fingers and is greatly terrified at the thought of what he has yet to go through.
Barometer 30.03. Thermometer -12."

Jan. 27
" Monday Wind N by E a fresh gale with Snow and Drift. Sent Thomas Haddle, James Allen and Andrew Sutherland to the North River Shore to kill Partridges and three Indians to Stoney River on the same duty. Mr Cockings Men being ordered home. Killed a young Bull being unnecefsary to keep so many. Armourer mending setting Guns. Carpenter making an accommodation Ladder for the Launch. Sawyers cutting stuff for repairing the Fort. John Eastly and James Geer constantly attending the unfortunate James Rofs. Two Men with the Horses hauling Firewood. and Invalids picking Oakum. An Indian Girl born.
Barometer 29.58. Thermometer -6."

Jan. 28
" Tuesday Wind W by N a moderate breeze with clear weather. Men employed as yesterday. Magnus Twatt and William Walker came home brought Thirteen Partridges. And the Packet returned from Churchill, all well there Thank God. James Rofs removed from my Room to Mr Cockings Cabbin, the Latter going into another. Poor Rofs shed Tears on seeing the Packet return. Had he and his unfortunate Companions followed those Natives path, who set out the day before them. All would have been well; But God's will be done.
Barometer 30.26. Thermometer -28."

" From Mr Mofes Norton Chief at Prince of Wales Fort.
Prince of Wales Fort 20th Jan. 1772
Dear Sir,
I Received your Letter by the Sloop dated the 7th September, and your last of the 6th Instant; which gave me great pleasure at these times to hear of your welfare, and those under your Command. We have been blefsed with that happinefs ever since you heard from us last, a few light disorders excepted. Some of our Natives have been and are Ailing at times; One young Woman died of a Consumption last Month. I duly received and in good Condition, all the Trading Goods and Provisions you was so kind to send; for all which please to accept my grateful Thanks, and in particular for the Powder. All the Trading Goods and Cannon Powder are Charged in our Accounts as received from York Fort.

Our Sloop arrived here on the 24th Sept. after a long and rough Pafsage. The Winds with us since the Ship sailed until the Sloop Arrived were mostly hard gales Northerly which drove her to the Southward into the Latitude 54°.12' North after which She got to the Northward into the Latitude 58°.30' North; and then meeting a hard Gale Northerly and gaining no ground. Mr Johnston bore away for York Fort, and just as they made your Factory-Land, the wind flew about to the southward which brought her to the Northward of Churchill and arrived as beforementioned: having lost her Jib Boom and Top-Gallant Mast. After which We had a mild open Fall, but few Geese killed; and at present no Partridges nor Fish, not enough to supply my own Table. Happy it is that the Northern Indians have from the first to last brought upwards of 1000 lb weight of fine fresh Venison and 30 Hares. But will soon be gone, as our Men have three days pr Week of It. and nothing else coming in to help out. except a few Deer that our Home Indians bring in. I hope the Partridges will be plenty with us both towards the Spring. We have but about 2300 made Beaver towards Trade, hope You have had better succefs. Our Craft of late wanting great repairs has deminished our Stock of Boat Nails. Shall Esteem it a particular favour, if in your power to spare us what you can conveniently by the next Packet which will go from hence about the End of next March the following Articles Viz. Nails 20d to 4d & 6d Clasp and 10d Roach. I shall also be glad if you can spare me a few 1/2 pint Kettles, a little Vermilion and Post Paper.
I wish you all the happinefs this Country can afford with a good Trade and Am.
Dear Sir,
your most obedient and
very humble Servant
Mofes Norton
P.S. Myself and Officers present our respectful Compliments to Mr Graham and the Gentlemen of his Mefs. Our Thanks for the Beef. Have sent you a couple brace of Hares which crave your Acceptance. I have taken this opportunity to write down the Bay and shall take it as a favour if you will forward them the first opportunity."

Jan. 29
" Wednesday Wind WSW a gentle gale with clear weather. Armourer stocking hunting Guns. Carpenter finished an accommodation Ladder for the Launch. Taylor at work for Trade. Sawyers cutting stuff for the repairs of the Fort. The others with the horses hauled Snow out of the yard and Brewed small Beer. James Rofs in a very malancholy condition. Magnus Taylor and Thomas Maddeson as before, not being able to do any other duty but to pick Oakum.
Barometer 30.19. Thermometer -25."

Jan. 30
" Thursday Wind NE a moderate breeze with close weather. Men Employed as yesterday and Thomas Maddeson afsisting in getting out the Snow. Three Home Natives came in brought a few Martens. James Rofs much as before.
Barometer 30.05. Thermometer -14."

Jan. 31
" Friday Wind S by E a gentle breeze with clear weather. Tradesmen Employed at their respective Duties. Two Men with the Horses hauling Firewood. Sent three Men to Ten-Shilling Creek to look for Timber pieces amongst the dry Firewood. Returned having found Ten. I should have sent the Sawyer abroad; But his Age and Infirmities will not admit of it. James Rofs rather worse than before. Mysef and Surgeon and every body contribute all in our power to save his Life; tho' of the opinion He should be happier if it would please God to take him away. for poor Man, what can he do without a Finger or Toe?[his question mark] Two of the Indians sent with William Lockey a Trapping came home and brought two Joints of Venison. One of them is Ill of a Cough and spitting of Blood, and must remain at the Factory under the Surgeon's care. This Disorder has been amongst the English and Natives ever since September last, which makes it unfit to send them to a great distance. Mr Cocking almost well and giving me afsistance at the Factory.
Barometer 30.06. Thermometer -2."

Feb. 1 1772
" Saturday Wind NNW a moderate breeze with clear weather. Men cut Firewood. Two Hunters came home brought Eighty Partridges and three Foxes. James Rofs much as before. Magnus Taylor still in a declining state never capable of doing Duty. The unfortunate Men's Dog which stayed by their Sleds and would not follow them when they first attempted to get on Shore. came to the Hunters Tent at the Fourteen's River on the Eastern Shore on Wednesday last. I suppose he has been drove on that Shore to the Westward of Stoney River; for if he had come on shore to the Eastward of that River, he must have found the Hunter's Tracks who are at that place and have gone to their Tent.
Barometer 30.36. Thermometer -11."

Feb. 2
" Sunday Wind N by W a gentle gale with clear weather. Divine Service as usual. The two Hunters returned to their Tents, and sent another Hand with them. Sent two Indians to William Lockey; One of those who came from him being Sick. I have supplied his place with one of the young Men who returned with the Packet from Churchill. James Rofs delirious at nights through excefs of pain. The Surgeon has but small hopes of his recovery, tho' he does not apprehend his Death to be near at hand.
Barometer 30.64. Thermometer -11."

Feb. 3
" Monday Wind NW by N a fresh breeze with clear weather. Armourer stocking Hunting Guns. Carpenter making conveniences in the upper Trading Warehouse, to hold the made Cloathing &c. Taylor at work for the Men. Sawyers cutting stuff for the Repairs of the Fort. One Man daily attending the Guns & Traps. Two Men with the Horses hauling Fire-wood. Two good able Men attending alternately on James Rofs (Viz. John Eastly and James Geer) he is in a miserable condition.
Barometer 30.68. Thermometer -20."

Feb. 4
" Tuesday Wind S by W a moderate gale with clear weather. Men Employed as yesterday. Natives very much out of Order with the Cough and Cold. quite incapable of Service. James Rofs seems rather better. John Hughes and Thomas Maddeson doing necefsary Service within doors.
Barometer 30.25. Thermometer -12."

Feb. 5
" Wednesday Wind NW a strong gale with Snow and Drift all day. Tradesmen about their proper Businefs. One Man making Cartridges. The others picking Oakum. James Rofs rather worse than yesterday. Excefs of pain has made him delirious in the Night and he disturbs all near him by singing Songs &c.
Barometer 29.79. Thermometer -14."

Feb. 6
" Thursday Wind NW a strong gale with Drifting Weather. Men Employed as yesterday. James Rofs as before.
Barometer 29.98. Thermometer -14."

Feb. 7
" Friday Wind West a fresh gale with clear weather. Tradesmen about their Duty. Two Indians with their Wives came to Trade a few Furrs. Invalids picking Oakum. So much are we troubled with Colds that as one of us gets well another turns bad.
Barometer 29.84. Thermometer -20."

Feb. 8
" Saturday Wind W by S a strong gale with close weather. Men cutting Fire-wood. One Man & dog came from the North River and brought 110 Partridges and one Coloured Fox. Traded with the Natives and gave them some Oatmeal to carry them up the River with a present of Tobacco for a Leader and other Indians in the Lakes. James Rofs much the same.
Barometer 29.35. Thermometer -6."

Feb. 9
" Sunday Wind NW a fresh gale with low Drift. Divine Service as usual. Seventy Partridges six Rabbets and one white Fox from Stoney River Hunters. Indians gone.
Barometer 29.69. Thermometer -31."

Feb. 10
" Monday Wind W by N a moderate gale with clear weather. Armourer repairing Setting Guns. Carpenter making Conveniences in the Warehouses. Sawyers cutting Boards. Taylor at work for Trade. Invalids picking Oakum. Two Men with the Horses hauling Firewood. And two Men attending by turns on the unfortunate James Rofs. Much in the same Condition. The Doctor fully Employed; never lefs than three or four Patients at one time. Hunters returned to their Tents. Sent two young Indians to the Northward to look for Deer.
Barometer 29.98. Thermometer - The Mercury in the Bulb. At 11 O'Clock It sunk from -55 where It was at Eight O'Clock. At 2 O'Clock Thermometer -34."

Feb. 11
" Tuesday Wind NW a fresh gale with clear weather. Tradesmen about their respective Duties. Invalids picking Oakum.
Barometer 30.02. Thermometer -54. About half past 3 O'Clock the Mercury subsided into the Bulb."

Feb. 12
" Wednesday Wind W by N a fresh gale with clear weather. Men employed as yesterday.
Barometer 29.95. Thermometer -33."

Feb. 13
" Thursday Wind NW a moderate gale with clear weather. Tradesmen employed at their respective Duties. the others picking Oakum. James Rofs worse than before.
Barometer 29.66. Thermometer -22."

Feb. 14
" Friday Wind NW a strong gale with cloudy weather with a low drift. Tradesmen about their respective duties. two Men with the Horses hauling firewood. Invalids picking Oakum. One Indian Lad came home from Stoney river. Natives something better of the cold. One Man round the Guns every other day, nothing stirring.
Barometer 29.77. Thermometer -24."

Feb. 15
" Saturday Wind W by N a fresh gale with clear weather. Men cut firewood. One Man came from the Fourteens river brought one coloured Fox, but not one Partridge; the Game being scarce and the People unexperienced. Magnus Taylor worse than before being unable to sit up. John Hughes Thomas Maddeson and John Reeves scarcely able to fetch a billet to the fire. James Rofs something easier. Six Partridges from an Indian Lad who hunts at the Factory.
Barometer 20.80. Thermometer -9."

Feb. 16
" Sunday Wind S by W a fresh breeze with Snow. Divine Service as usual. One Man came from Ship River brought forty Partridges, one white and one coloured Fox. He informed me John Taylor has been laying ill at the Tent near a fortnight with the bloody Flux. Have ordered him to be hauled hom as soon as pofsible. The fourteens River returned to his Tent.
Barometer 29.14. Thermometer +1."

Feb. 17
" Monday Wind North a small breeze with Snow at times. Armourer Stocking hunting Guns. Carpenter finished his Job in the Trading Warehouse. Taylor at work for Trade. Sawyers cutting boards. Two Invalids making fishing Nets for Trade. two Men with the Horses hauling firewood. two Men alternately attending on the unfortunate James Rofs. Sent a Man along with the Ship River Hunter to afsist in bringing home John Taylor. Eleven Partridges to day.
Barometer 29.28. Thermometer -6 1/2."

Feb. 18
" Tuesday Wind E by N a gentle breeze with clear weather. Men employed as yesterday. Six Partridges from home hunters. James Rofs rather worse.
Barometer 29.47. Thermometer -7."

Feb. 19
" Wednesday Wind ENE a moderate breeze with close weather. Armourer stocking Hunting Guns. Carpenter and Sawyer preparing stuff for repairing two of the Sheds which I am in hopes of doing before the Trading Indians come down. Taylor at work for the Men. two Men with the horses hauling firewood. Two Invalids making fishing Nets for Trade. Magnus Taylor declining daily.
Barometer 29.59. Thermometer 0."

Feb. 20
" Thursday Wind NNE a gentle breeze with clear weather. Tradesmen about their respective duties. two Men with the Horses hauling firewood. Brewed small Beer. John Taylor came home much amended in his health. Twenty Partridges from Stoney river Hunters. The Man who conducted John Taylor home returned to his tent at the fourteens River. Twelve Partridges from home hunters.
Barometer 29.79. Thermometer +7 1/2."

Feb. 21
" Friday Wind NNW a gentle gale with clear weather. Men employed as yesterday. Magnus Taylor and James Rofs much as before. John Hughes John Reeves and Thomas Maddeson up and down by turns. Stoney River Hunter returned to his Tent. Seven Partridges from home Hunters.
Barometer 29.97. Thermometer 0 1/2."

Feb. 22
" Saturday Wind SE a moderate gale Rime in the morning but afterwards clear. Men cut firewood and cleaned the Yards. Five Men on the Doctors List. One hundred & ninety Partridges from North River hunters.
Barometer 29.94. Thermometer +3 1/2."

Feb. 23
" Sunday Wind NW a fresh gale with clear weather and Snow in the Morning. Divine Service as usual.
Barometer 30.11. Thermometer +7."

Feb. 24
" Monday Wind NW a gentle gale with close weather and Snow in the Morning. Armourer stocking hunting Guns. Carpenter preparing stuff for repairing the Sheds. the Sawyers cutting ditto. Taylor at work for Trade. One Man attending the setting Guns nothing stirring. Invalids making fishing Nets. Six Men on the Doctors List, one of them, Magnus Taylor, declines daily. James Rofs's hands are in a fair way but the right heel being froze to the bone is very bad. Several Families of home Indians came in, could not pay the whole of their Debt. North River hunters returned to their Tent. Ten Partridges from home hunters.
Barometer 30.37. Thermometer +4."

Feb. 25
" Tuesday Wind NW a moderate breeze with cloudy weather. Men employed as yesterday. Received twenty-one Partridges and two Rabbets from home hunters. Six Men on the Doctors list.
Barometer 30.32. Thermometer 0."

Feb. 26
" Wednesday Wind NE by E moderate gale with clear weather. Men employed as before. Received Eighteen Partridges from Home Hunters.
Barometer 30.05. Thermometer -1."

Feb. 27
" Thursday Wind N by W a gentle gale with clear weather. Men about necefsary duty. Received fifty-one Partridges and two Rabbets from home Hunters. Seven Men on the Doctors List.
Barometer 30.11. Thermometer +3."

Feb. 28
" Friday Wind NW a gentle breeze with clear weather. Men and Horses cleaned the Yards of Snow and brought in firewood. One coloured Fox from the Guns. twenty-three Partridges and two Rabbets from Home hunters. Seven Men on the Doctors List.
Barometer 30.05. Thermometer -5."

Feb. 29
" Saturday Wind N by E a moderate breeze with hazy weather. Men cut firewood. Surgeon amputated six Joints of the Toes of the unfortunate James Rofs and from the appearance of the feet is doubtful of his Recovery. Six other Men on the sick List. One Hundred & ten Partridges, three Foxes and three Martens from the Eastern Hunters. twenty seven Partridges from the home Natives.
Barometer 30.09. Thermometer +1."

Mar. 1 1772
" Sunday Wind NNW a gentle breeze with clear weather. Divine Service as Usual. Sixty Partridges from the North River Hunters.
Barometer 30.23. Thermometer -6."

Mar. 2
" Monday Wind North a fresh gale with cloudy weather and a little Snow. Eighty Partridges and one Fox from Eastern Hunters sent the Carpenter and three Men fourteen miles up the River to saw a few plank Fourteens Hunters came home with their Baggage as nothing is to be got there, the other Eastern Hunters returned to their respective Tents. Besides the Officers there are no Men at home but what are sick or attending such.
Barometer 30.12. Thermometer -8."

Mar. 3
" Tuesday Wind ENE a strong gale with Snow & Drift. Armourer repairing Indian Guns. Cooper two Harnefs Casks. Others cutting wood for brewing Table Beer.
Barometer 29.74. Thermometer -1."

Mar. 4
" Wednesday Wind NNW a strong gale with clear weather. Men ground Oatmeal and shoveled Snow up in the Yards. Nine Partridges from Home Hunters. Six People on the sick list.
Barometer 29.90. Thermometer -20."

Mar. 5
" Thursday Wind W by S a fresh gale with drifting weather. Tradesmen at their respective duties. the others grinding Oatmeal. Three Partridges from Home Hunters. Sent off a Packet for Severn House.
Barometer 29.89. Thermometer -24."

" To Mr Christopher Atkinson Master at Severn House
York Fort 5th March 1772
Sir,
By the return of the Packet I received your favour, which gave us great pleasure to hear you were all well. We as also the few Indians that wintered with us have been and still are troubled with Colds. never lefs than five on the Doctors List, no sooner is one up than another is down. Magnus Taylor has never done any duty since his arrival and is declining apace. James Rofs John Farrant and James Thompson were carried to Sea in endeavouring to crofs the North River lower than usual at that season. the two latter perished at Sea. the former got to the Factory but in a miserable condition and has since lofst all his Fingers and part of his Toes with the Bulb of his Nose; but if the frost has not affected the Heel bone Mr Hutchinson has great hopes of saving his Life. Have sent inclosed Rofs's relation of the affair to avoid prolixity. Poor Man. He is an object of pity. You having plenty of Lint and Basilicon I desire you will send by the Bearers all you can spare.

Partridges have been so scarce that with great difficulty I have been enabled to serve but three days pr Week. I hope you have better luck.

The Cask of Brandy you left behind (as mentioned to Mr Cocking) is in our Warehouse. It was happy for Severn that there was a good Stock of that Article. Such an Error could not have happened had you been careful in taking your Cargo, or given orders to Mr Umfreville to see it put on board. Mr Jacobs was always too exact in his affairs not to permit such a great and valuable Article to be turned out and you know he was afsiduous in businefs to the last hour of his Charge; Accordingly We find that Cask crofsed off in Mr Cockings rough paper as delivered out for Severn; but not being put on board the Sloop I suppose it was rolled in again amongst other Casks. To prevent the like for the future bring Mr Umfreville with You in August as he may be serviceable at Shiptime. The Company's Affairs should always be mentioned in the General Letter. Let me advise you to be exact in your Affairs, particularly in your Package, Invoices & Bills of Lading; as an Error in those may create the Company a deal of trouble at the Custom House.

My reason for wrting at this time is to desire You to send by the Bearers the Quadrant with the bubble which I am certain Mr Falconer will readily agree to spare; He having a good Hadleys Quadrant of his own. Detain the Bearers till Mr Falconer Answer a few Queries in the Art of Navigation.

In the Postcript of my last Letter I acquainted you with the standing payment of a packet between York Fort and Severn which I do again refer you to. We were surprized to find you paid the Natives no more than eighteen Beaver. I appologized to them as a mistake and directly made up the deficiency. Let us at all times deal equitably with the Natives which must tend to the Company's Interest and our own Credit. I wish you a plentiful Goofe Season. A good Trade and pleasant voyage here in due time.
I remain
Your obedient
Humble Servant
Andrew Graham
PS. I have sent you a bit of young Beef which craves your acceptance."

Mar. 6
" Friday Wind SW a fresh gale with Snow at times. Men employed as yesterday. four Men on the sick List. Three Partridges from home Hunters.
Barometer 29.63. Thermometer -10."

Mar. 7
" Saturday Wind NW a moderate gale with clear weather. Men cut firewood. Two Hundred Partridges and one fox from the North River Hunters. Sawyers came for Provisions. Cooper finished the Harnefs Hogsheads.
Barometer 29.91. Thermometer -24."

Mar. 8
" Sunday Wind W by S a fresh gale with clear weather. Divine Service as usual. Sawyers returned to their Tent. Two Indian lads came from William Lockey, all well there, brought one Fox, one Quiquihatch and fifty-one Martens, also three Beaver. Twenty-eight Partridges from Home Hunters. four Men on the sick List.
Barometer 29.84. Thermometer -13."

Mar. 9
" Monday Wind West a strong gale with clear drifting weather. Armourer Stocking Hunting Guns. Taylor at work for Trade. Smith and one Man at the Forge. Three Men with the Horses hauling firewood. Cooper making Water Pails for Severn. North River hunters returned to their Tent. Four Men on the sick List, one of them (John Hughes) in a dangerous way.
Barometer 29.24. Thermometer +6."

Mar. 10
" Tuesday Wind NNW a heavy gale with drifting weather. Tradesmen employed as yesterday. The others ground Oatmeal and made wads for Cannon.
Barometer 29.77. Thermometer -26."

Mar. 11
" Wednesday Wind NW a moderate gale with cloudy weather and Snow. Men employed as yesterday. John Hughes in a weak condition, three other Men on the sick List.
Barometer 29.64. Thermometer 21-."

Mar. 12
" Thursday Wind NW a strong gale with drifting weather. Tradesmen about their Respective duties. Three Men with Horses brought one Load of firewood, and afterwards with the Invalids made Gun-wads.
Barometer 29.78. Thermometer -14."

Mar. 13
" Friday Wind NW by N a fresh gale with hazy weather and a little Snow with Drift. Men employed as yesterday. A Partridge and a Rabbet from Home Hunters. James Rofs sat up an hour in the Evening for the first time since his misfortune, three other men on the sick list. A Cow calved a cow Calf.
Barometer 29.86. Thermometer -9."

Mar. 14
" Saturday Wind a gentle breeze with clear weather. Men cut firewood. John Hughes departed this Life about Eight O'Clock in the Morning quite worn out with Age and Infirmities. Sawyers came home for Provisions and brought Magnus Sanderson who is sick. indeed he has done very little service since Shiptime. Received One Hundred and fourteen Partridges, four Foxes, three Rabbets and one Cat from the Eastern Hunters; and twenty -five Partridges , One Rabbet, one Fox and one Marten from home Hunters. five Men on the Doctors List.
Barometer 29.96. Thermometer -7."

Mar. 15
" Sunday Wind NNE a small breeze with clear weather. Divine Service as usual. Interred the Body of John Hughes. Sent an Indian Lad to recall our North River Hunters; the Factory being greatly distrefsed for want of Men by Sicknefs. There are at present eight Men on the sick list, besides several others (including Myself, Surgeon & Second) who can scarcely keep up. The Chief disorders are Rheumatism Coughs & pains in the Head, the Surgeon employed Night as well as Day. He informs me his Medicines run very low many Articles being Expended. Received ten Partridges and one Rabbet from home Hunters. The Natives on the Plantation exert themselves very kindly in procuring Us fresh Provisions, Partridges being still very scarce.
Barometer 29.63. Thermometer +2."

Mar. 16
" Monday Wind W by N a gentle breeze with cloudy weather and a little Snow. Armourer stocking Hunting Guns. Smith fileing up falling Hatchets. Taylor at work for Trade. the others ground Oatmeal and filled the Copper. Seven Men on the sick list.
Barometer 29.51. Thermometer +10."

Mar. 17
" Tuesday Wind North a small breeze with close weather. Brewed Table Beer. Twenty-nine Partridges and three Rabbets from Home Hunters.
Barometer 29.71. Thermometer +10."

Mar. 18
" Wednesday Wind N by E a fresh gale with Snow and drift. Brewed small Beer. Ten Partridges and two Rabbets to day.
Barometer 30.02. Thermometer +4."

Mar. 19
" Thursday Wind S by W a gentle gale with clear weather. Armourer Stocking Hunting Guns. Smith fileing up Hatchets for next years stock. Taylor at work for Trade. One Invalid picking Oakum. Cooper and three Men washing Casks and trimming them for Provisions and Furrs. Shall save some Brandy Pipes for Churchill as desired by Mr Norton; indeed they will make good Oil Casks.
Barometer 30.22. Thermometer -12."

Mar. 20
" Friday Wind S by W a moderate gale with close snowy weather. Armourer stocking Hunting Guns. Smith and one Man at the Forge. Taylor at work for Trade. Invalids making Gun-wads. Cooper and the others washing Casks. sixteen Partridges to day. five Men on the sick List.
Barometer 29.79. Thermometer +4."

Mar. 21
" Saturday Wind WNW a moderate breeze with clear weather. Cleaned Houses yards &c and did other necefsary duty. Three Tents of Partridge Hunters came home with their baggage and brought one hundred Partridges, two Martins, one Fox and one Porcupine. Twenty Partridges from Home Hunters and three fish from an old Indian Man from the french Creek. James Rofs in a fair way of Recovery, five other Men on the sick List. took down the flagg-staff, the Main-mast being decayed. substituted a temporary one. found the Wall on the North West side against which it stood quite sound and hard.
Barometer 29.97. Thermometer -10."

Mar. 22
" Sunday Wind ENE a strong gale with much snow and drift. Divine Service as usual. Received nineteen Partridges and one Rabbet from Home Hunters. Two Families of Home Natives came in, brought one hundred and forty fine Jack fish; but being sickly have procured very few Furrs.
Barometer 29.98. Thermometer -2."

Mar. 23
" Monday Wind WNW a heavy gale with a continued Snow and drift. Armourer stocking hunting Guns. Smith finished furniture for Harnefs Casks for the Goofe Tent. Cooper making Pails. Taylor at work for Trade. The others ground Oatmeal & made Gun-wads. five Men on the sick List.
Barometer 29.45. Thermometer +14."

Mar. 24
" Tuesday Wind NW by W a moderate gale with clear weather. Sent this morning early William Carr with thirteen Englishmen and eight Indians to bring down a flag-staff, Gate Posts &c from Rainbow Island fourteen miles up the river. Men at home trimming the Snow up in heaps the works being encumbered. One Hundred & fifty Partridges from three Indian hunters. five Men on the sick list.
Barometer 29.72. Thermometer +6."

Mar. 25
" Wednesday Wind NE a gentle breeze with clear weather. William Carr and the Men returned last Night near midnight; but only brought the Gate Posts and furniture, they were obliged to leave the Flag-staff as the Deep Snow made hauling heavy. This day the Men rested themselves until the Evening and then loaded the great sled with things for the Goofe Tent. Five Men on the sick list.
Barometer 29.87. Thermometer +15."

Mar. 26
" Thursday Wind NW a moderate gale with hazy weather. Armourer repairing Hunting Guns. Smith and one Man at the forge. The others went with the Ammunition and Casks to the fourteens River and returned at noon. Packet returned from Severn all well there. The Bricklayer died of the Venerial Disease in February. Mr Falconer sent the Instructions as desired but not the Land Quadrant as it went to Churchill in the succefs Sloop. - This Instrument was wanted for Mr Cocking's Journey, whom I intended to send Inland with the Natives; as I have great hopes a person of his Station & Abilities may be of great service in promoting Your Honours Trade, and as he justly observes, will make him at the same time thoroughly acquainted with your affairs here. However as there is a good Hadleys Quadrant here belonging to the Sloop Master. We shall pursue our design God willing.
Barometer 29.94. Thermometer +7."

" From Mr Christopher Atkinson Master at Severn House.
Severn House 16th March 1772
Sir,
Your Packet arrived here March the 14th I am very glad to hear that Mr Graham and the Gentlemen at York Fort are well; but am greatly concerned of the sad accident that has befel the three unfortunate Men; God keep us from all such Accidents.. I hope it will make Men for the future to be more careful how they crofs the North River. We are all very well here thank God at present but have been attended with Colds at times; but they are now pretty well gone. February the 28th about 2 o'Clock in the Morning Samuel Enever Bricklayer departed this Life after a long fit of sicknefs . I have sent you all the Basilicon & Lint I can spare. Partridges are very scarce here. I am hard put to it to serve out three days pr week. I am very glad the Cask of Brandy is safe, but am sorry to think the leaving of it at York Fort should be placed to my Account. ? at that time was in so weak condition as hardly to be able to take care of myself. And as to my ordering Mr Umfreville to take care of the Severn Cargo; He was not under my Command. I shall bring Mr Umfreville with me and will take particular care of the Packages Invoices and Bills of Lading. Likewise the Companys Afffairs shall not suffer thro' any neglect of mine. As to the Indians telling you I gave them but 18 Beaver they are lying Rascals. I paid them the usual payment of 35 Beaver. And gave them a Gallon of Brandy of my own. As to the Quadrant you mentioned with the Bubble, there is no such a thing here. It went to Churchill in the Succefs Sloop. I wish you all better Health, plenty of Provisions, and a good Trade.
And Remain Sir
Your obed. humble Servt.
Christopher Atkinson
PS. I return you my thanks for the piece of Beef."


" NB On Every opportunity I gave Mr Atkinson all the good Advice and Instructions I could; And by the return of the Packet on Decem. 27th the Indians seemed difsatisfied with their payment, Receiving only Eighteen Beaver each at Severn House, tho I had in my Letter told him the standing payment was thirty-five Beaver each person upon which I supplied the deficiency and wrote by this Packet about it. - Your honours may see Mr Atkinson has denied it in his general Letter but what is very surprizing acknowledges the Error in a Complimentary Letter in return to mine which contained such advice as I thought most conducive to the Companys interest. This Complimentary Letter I have also entered that your Honours may see who is right, or make what construction you please.
Signed Andrew Graham"


" Complimentary Letter from Mr Atkinson Master at Severn House
Severn House Mar. 16th 1772
Sir,
I Received your favour of the 5th Instant for which I return you my thanks, but am very sorry to hear of the Ill state of of Health among your People. The Natives are all very well here thank God. The poor Bricklayer departed this Life the 28th of February after a long fit of Illnefs which rendered him an object of pity. before he died his Body & Limbs were full of Sores & Ulcers. I never saw a man in the condition he was in in my life. It was a long while before he would confefs what ailed him; I gave him all the afsistance that lay in my power when I knew his disorder; but he was too far gone to receive any support. - You can't think how kindly I take your Reprimand. It shews there is some old Friendship left. but I think you are rather too severe upon me till you had better known the truth. In the first place you mention my walking about like a Gentleman at Shiptime and not looking after the Severn Cargo: God send you may never bee in the condition I was then in; I stood more in need of a Nurse to look after me than I to look after a Sloops Cargo. As to the Packet affair I own it a mistake of my own for I realy mistook your meaning and thought it was 35 from each place but shall take care for the future. Whoever was your Informer concerning my giving the Indians nothing for killing Geese is a Villain of the blackest Dye and time will prove It. As to telling the Widdows & Orphans to go to the Hay-stack and eat Spuce &c is a great falsity. Surely Mr Graham You do not think me such a Savage; I afsisted them as much as any would have done. - I have had a large family of Indians to maintain all the winter; And I can prove that I have given them as much Victuals or more than any Natives that ever lay about Severn House. They are about 20 in number and have laid at Dicky's Creek most part of the Year. As to my not sending up Brandy to the Leading Indians, is like all the rest. I only sent by every one that asked for the Leaders. No Sir![an exclamation mark?] I shall take peculiar care to oblige all the Natives; and hope to leave Severn House in as good a prospect to Trade as I found it in; If I get but the bare Trade and have not one Skin Overplufs. I shall conclude with subscribing myself
Good Sir
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
Christopher Atkinson.
PS. Please to give my Compliments to your Mefs-mates. As to James Rofs's affair, I can do nothing at present the Men being mostly abroad. when they come home they will I hope subscribe as I shall myself most willingly.
I have given these Indians 35 Beaver Each.
I Gave Macappy and the other about 40 Beaver."

Mar. 27
" Friday Wind EbN a moderate Breeze with Haze & Rime. Armourer repairing hunting Guns. Taylor at work for Trade. This morning the others with the Indian Lads went up to Rainbow Island and returned in the Evening with a very fine stick for a Flag-staff. the Sawyers returned with them having finished their duty there. five Partridges one Rabbet and one fox from Hunters. Took up the Guns and Steel Traps about the Factory.
Barometer 29.89. Thermometer +9."

Mar. 28
" Saturday Wind East a gentle breeze with cloudy Weather and a little Snow. Sold the Effects of the three deceased Men. By a voluntary motion of the Men, We have raised a Contribution towards to Support of the unfortunate James Rofs, who is in a fair way of Recovery but an object of pity. Six Men on the Doctors List.
Barometer 30.03. Thermometer +21."

Mar. 29
" Sunday Wind E by N a moderate gale with cloudy Weather and snow at times. Divine Service as usual. Twenty-five Partridges from Hunters. Six Men on the sick List.
Barometer 30.23. Thermometer +14."

Mar. 30
" Monday Wind NNW a brisk gale with clear weather. Armourer repairing hunting Guns. Smith and one Man at the Forge. Carpenter making a pair of Oaken Gates. Cooper making Pails. Taylor at work for Trade. Three Men with the Horses hauling firewood. Six Men fell six Hundred Tent-poles for Traders use. Four Men on the Doctors List. Sixty-six Partridges to day.
Barometer 30.49. Thermometer +8 1/2."

Mar. 31
" Tuesday Wind NNE a gentle breeze with hazy weather. Tradesmen employed as yesterday. The others with one Horse hauling firewood & Tent Poles. Sixty-two Partridges and one Rabbet to day. Four Men on the Doctors List.
Barometer 30.71. Thermometer 11."

Apr. 1 1772
" Wednesday Wind ENE a gentle breeze with clear weather. Tradesmen about their Respective Duties. Three Men with the Dogs hauling Tent Poles. Two Men with one Horse hauling firewood. Five Men hauling Snow out of the Yard. sent two Men to look for a stick to lengthen the Flag-staff not being able to procure a sufficient heigth from one entire tree. Thirty-eight Partridges and one Rabbet from Hunters. Four Men on the sick List.
Barometer 30.61. Thermometer 13."

Apr. 2
" Thursday Wind SW a brisk gale with clear weather and a low Drift. This Morning at 2 O'Clock myself with Mr Hutchins and thirty Men (Viz. half English and half Indian Men) with a large sled set out for Rainbow Island and returned in the Evening at 8 O'Clock with two large sticks to compleat the Flag-staff. Men at Home about necefsary duty. One family of Indians came in, could not pay the whole of their Debt the Man being Ailing. Ten Partridges from Hunters. Five Men on the Doctors List.
Barometer - Thermometer +37."

Apr. 3
" Friday Wind WSW a small breeze with clear weather. Men cleaning out their Cabbins. Six Men on the Doctors list.
Barometer 30.21. Thermometer +32."

Apr. 4
" Saturday Wind and Weather as yesterday. Men did several necefsary Jobs. James Rofs on the mending hand. Magnus Taylor and Magnus Sanderson in a very weak state. the latter has been wandering in his discourse since yesterday Noon. Six Partridges to day.
Barometer 30.24. Thermometer 40."

Apr. 5
" Sunday Wind and Weather as yesterday. Divine Service as usual. This morning Magnus Sanderson departed this life of a Peripneumony.
Barometer 29.98. Thermometer 39."

Apr. 6
" Monday Wind WNW a moderate gale with Rain at times being the first this Season. Armourer repairing fowling Pieces. Carpenter making the outer gates. Shipwright and one Man making the Flag-staff. One Man making a fishing Net. Smith and one Man at the Forge. Taylor at work for Trade. Three Men with the Dogs hauling Tent-poles. Two Men with one Horse hauling firewood. Mr Cocking with the others packing Deer Skins. In the afternoon intered the Remains of Magnus Sanderson. Seventeen Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 29.76. Thermometer 43."

Apr. 7
" Tuesday Wind NW by N a fresh gale with cloudy weather and Snow at times. Men employed as yesterday. Fifty-five Partridges to day.
Barometer 24.88. Thermometer 26."

Apr. 8
" Wednesday Wind SSW a fresh Gale with rain Sleet and Snow at times. In the morning all Hands with one Horse hauling two trips of Firewood from behind the Fort. Afterwards Armourer stocking hunting Guns. Taylor at work for Trade. Shipwright and one Man at the Flag-staff. Smith and one Man at work for ditto. Carpenter making the Gates. The others about necefsary Jobs. Three Men on the Sick list.
Barometer 29.00. Thermometer 37."

Apr. 9
" Thursday Wind NW by W a strong gale with Snow and Drift at times. Men employed as yesterday. Received a Packet from Prince of Wales Fort, all well there thank God. Seventy-one Partridges to day.
Barometer 29.52. Thermometer 21."

" From Mr Mofes Norton Chief at Prince of Wales Fort.
Prince of Wales Fort. 2d April 1772.
Dear Sir,
With pleasure I take this opportunity to enquire after your Welfare and all those under your Command, with hopes you all enjoy Health in its true perfection. We are at this present tolerably well, but since you heard from us last both We and the Natives have been greatly afflicted with violent Colds. One Native died this Month and others are dangerously ill.

Partridges are so scarce with us that I have eight Tents of our own People besides Natives to furnish us with Provisions. nothing but Rock Partridges are to be got and no other kind of Country Provisions coming in at present to help out; and the Seasons for procuring this Country Provisions are so very precarious; I must solicit your afsistance if the Venison and Goofe Seasons should prove favourable at your place to procure all you can for us; also Shoe Leather; and if you should be in want of Salt & Casks. you will please to acquaint me in time and I will supply you by the Sloop; as We still have a great number of Hands. and have reason to think that the Fishery will be continued.

We having been very sickly of Late, shall be glad if in your power to afsist us with a few Articles of such Medicines as our Surgeon has wrote for if convenient. You will please to send what you can spare of the Articles mentioned in my last. As nothing material has occurred shall conclude with these Sentiments; That you may have plentiful Seasons of Provisions with a good Trade Health & Happinefs, are the sincere wishes of
Dear Sir,
Your Obedient
Humble Servant
Mofes Norton
PS. Our Respectful Compliments attend Mr Graham and the Gentlemen of his Mefs. Have sent three Indians with the Packet, one of which is inclinable to stay with his Friends at your place. Please to dispatch the others back as soon as pofsible. If you can spare me a little Corn Emery and Hardning shall Esteen it as a Favour."

Apr. 10
" Friday Wind W by S a moderate gale with clear weather. Men employed as yesterday.
Barometer 29.76. Thermometer 9."

Apr. 11
" Saturday Wind SW a gentle gale with clear weather. Two Men and one horse hauling firewood. Shipwright and Labourers rose the lower Flagg-staff in the former station. Tradesmen at their respective duties. Two Indians came in to Trade with a few Furrs. Thirty-nine Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 29.70. Thermometer 9."

Apr. 12
" Sunday Wind NNE a small breeze with clear Weather. Divine Service as usual. Traded with the Natives. James Rofs in a fair way of Recovery, but is and will be an object of Compafsion. Fifty-three Partridges to day.
Barometer 29.75. Thermometer -15."

Apr. 13
" Monday Wind SW a fresh gale with clear weather. Armourer and one Man cleaning the Factory Arms. Smith and one Man at the Forge. Carpenter about the Gates Cooper making Pails. Three Taylors at work for Trade. Two Men fitting the Swivels on a Log of wood, in order to salute the Indians, the firing the Cannon on the Sheds being prejudicial to the Fort, breaking the Windows, cracking the beautifull outside plaistering and damaging the Building in every shape. Two Men with one Horse hauling firewood. The other Horse being old I do not at present work him. Shipwright about the Flagg-staff. William Lockey and three Indian Lads came home, brought forty-six Martins, One Cat, two Otters and three Beaver. Returned the Packet to Churchill and the Trading Indians to their families. Thirty-eight Partridges from Hunters. This morning sent two Men with Dogs to the fourteen's River to haul Brush.
Barometer 30.08. Thermometer +18."

" To Mr Mofes Norton Chief at Prince of Wales Fort.
York Fort 11th April 1772
Good Sir,
By the return of my Packet and by yours now received, I Received the agreable News of all well at Churchill. Sicknefs and Malancholy Accidents have overclouded York Fort since the departure of the Ship. Three of our choicest Men on their way to the North Shore to kill Partridges, attempting to pafs over the River lower down than usual, were carried out to Sea on the Ice, two of whom died with Cold and Hunger, and the third got to the Factory in a miserable condition: He has lost all his Fingers, part of his toes and bulb of his Nose. Poor Man! [another?] He is an object of pity. I have sent you inclosed his account of the Affair, also an Account of a Voluntary Subscription that We have here raised for his future Support. March 14th out old Acquaintance John Hughes died of a good old Age. being quite worn out. The 5th Inst. Magnus Sanderson (who came out last Shiptime) departed this Life of a Peripneumony ; and three others are in a very poor condition; A raging Cold indeed, which has more of lefs attacked every one of Us; but hope in God We will get clear of it as the Weather grows warm.

The Home Natives have been also afflicted with Coughs and Colds but are now much better. They have behaved well and have been of infinite Service in killing Partridges which have been very scarce, but are now plentiful about us. you may depend on my utmost endeavours to procure Provisions for You, well knowing how difficult it is to maintain so many Men at Churchill. We are not in want of Salt and Casks, however I think your sending what you can spare will be requisite. Tents and Shoe Leather shall claim my attention.

I have sent by the Bearers forty-eight half pint Kettles weighing Seventeen one quarter pounds - Six pounds Vermilion - One quire large Post Paper - five hundred four-penny Nails - One thousand Six-penny - one thousand eight-penny - One thousand ten-penny and one thousand twenty-penny ditto - Some Corn Emery and Hardning. All which Goods (the two last Articles excepted) are brought to Account in our Books. I have sent Inclosed a Signal for your Sloop, also Severn Letters. As our Bricklayer died there, please send Yours in the Sloop. There is nothing material for him to do so suppose He may be returned back in the Sloop or after Christmafs also some Train Oil; and by the first conveyance six Knives and Forks, or lefs rather than distrefs Yourself.

No Letters from the Bay but by my Severn Packet-men heard from the Natives they were all well about Christmafs. You shall hear from me in the Summer. Wishing us both a good Goofe Season, a large Trade with Health. I conclude
Good Sir,
Your Obedient
Humble Servant
Andrew Graham
PS. Our respectful Comp'ts attend Mr Norton and the Gentlemen of his Mefs. The Surgeon has sent some Medicines."

Apr. 14
" Tuesday Wind NNW a moderate gale with clear weather. Armourer mending Indian Guns. Cooper making Pails. Two Men with one horse hauling firewood. Nine Men killing Partridges brought Eleven and one Rabbet. Sixty Partridges from Indians. Two Indians came in to Trade a few Furrs. Indians all well up the River.
Barometer 30.18. Thermometer +16."

Apr. 15
" Wednesday Wind NNW a strong gale with Snow and Drift. Armourer and one Man cleaning the Factory Arms. Smith and one Man making Iron work for Water Pails for York Fort and Severn, Cooper having made twelve. Carpenter making the Gates. The others with the Horse hauling firewood. Trading Natives returned to their Families. Sixty Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 30.31. Thermometer +12."

Apr. 16
" Thursday Wind NNW a strong gale with clear drifting weather. Tradesmen about their respective Duties. Seven Men sent a Partridge Hunting brought ten. and thirty two from the Natives.
Barometer 20.16. Thermometer 10."

Apr. 17
" Friday Wind NW a gentle breeze with clear weather. Divine Service as usual proper for the day; all the Men clean and decent. Two Men whom I sent last Monday to the fourteens River returned having done their Jobb. twenty-six Partridges to day.
Barometer 30.08. Thermometer +14."

Apr. 18
" Saturday Wind SW a fresh gale with close weather. Tradesmen about their respective Duties. Mr Cocking and the others hauling firewood from behind the Fort. Eighty Partridges to day.
Barometer 29.68. Thermometer 32."

Apr. 19
" Sunday Wind and Weather as yesterday. Divine Service as usual. Four Men that did not attend Prayers put them on the Leads to watch two Hours. Ninety-eight Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 29.91. Thermometer 30."

Apr. 20
" Monday Wind North a strong gale with Snow. Armourer cleaning hunting guns, and one Man under his Inspection cleaning Factory Arms. Cooper repairing Trading Rundlets. Carpenter, Shipwright, Smith and one Man laid open the South West shed of the Fort which composes our Trading Room and principal Warehouses for Trade to give it a thorough repair and Cover it with new Lead that came out ten years ago for that purpose. Three Men with the Horse finished hauling the firewood. The others about various necefsary Jobs. Five Partridges from hunters. An Indian Man died of a lingering Illnefs.
Barometer 29.80. Thermometer 27."

Apr. 21
" Tuesday Wind NW a gentle breeze with clear weather. Armourer cleaning Hunting Guns, and one Man Factory Arms. Cooper repairing Rundlets. Taylors at work for Trade. Carpenter, Shipwright, Smith and one Man Covered in the Trading shed and from four Inches descent which it had the wrong way have given it four Inches good the right way; They have wrought yesterday and to day from Sun Rise to Sun Set, very good and able Men indeed. I never knew a set of quieter Servants than we have at this time and Thank God All now doing Duty except Magnus Taylor Thomas Maddeson and the unfortunate James Rofs. Gave the Home Natives their usual presents for Goose Hunting.
Barometer 30.42. Thermometer 10."

Apr. 22
" Wednesday Wind SSW a gentle gale with cloudy weather. Tradesmen employed as yesterday. Labourers about necefsary Jobbs. Dispatched nineteen families of Indians to the Eastern Shore and back of the Island Goofe Tents. consisting of Seventy-eight Men Women and Children. Twenty-seven Partridges to day.
Barometer 29.93. Thermometer 30."

Apr. 23
" Thursday Wind SW a gentle gale with clear weather. Men employed about their necefsary duties until Eleven O'Clock in the forenoon and then exercised small Arms. Two Indians came in to Trade a few furrs. They have lived well all this Winter which makes it plainly appear how conducive it is to the welfare of the Natives and for the Company's interest to dispatch them to good Hunting Grounds before the Cold weather comes on in Autumn. Twelve Partridges to day.
Barometer 29.96. Thermometer +46."

Apr. 24
" Friday Wind South a fresh gale with rain Snow and Sleet at times. Shipwright, Carpenter, Smith and one Man busy repairing the South West shed. Taylor at work for Trade. Armourer repairing hunting Guns. Cooper repairing Rundlets. Sawyer squaring timber. Sloop-Master and the others cut the Ice round the Whole Sloop as usual. James Rofs on the mending hand. Magnus Taylor daily declining. Thomas Maddeson something better. Indians returned to their families. Forty-six Partridges from the back of the Island Hunters.
Barometer 29.62. Thermometer 44."

Apr. 25
" Saturday Wind South a gentle gale with clear pleasant weather. Cleaned Houses Yards &c. Thirteen Partridges from the back of the Island hunters.
Barometer 29.45. Thermometer 52."

Apr. 26
" Sunday Wind NbW a fresh gale with hazy weather. Divine Service as usual. Three Families of Severn Indians came in to Trade. The Water running along Shore and in the Creeks.
Barometer 29.82. Thermometer 36."

Apr. 27
" Monday Wind NbW a brisk gale with clear weather. Armourer cleaning hunting guns. Taylor at work for Trade. Carpenter Smith and one Man at the covering of the South West Curtain. Shipwright made a Jack-staff. Cooper making a Harnefs barrel for powder for the back of the Island Goose Tent. Sawyers cutting two-inch Plank for the Curtains of the Fort. The others repairing the Deer Hedge. Sent Mefs Cocking Lockey and one Man to the Eastern Goofe Tent to serve out Powder & Shot to the Natives, and to Cure the Geese.
Barometer 30.10. Thermometer 26."

Apr. 28
" Tuesday Wind South a fresh gale with a little Rain and Sleet. Tradesmen employed as yesterday. The others about various necefsary duty. Dispatched three families of Indians to the back of the Island Goofe Tent. One Man came from the Fourteens River for some necefsaries and returned directly.
Barometer 29.79. Thermometer 35."

Apr. 29
" Wednesday Wind North a brisk gale with cloudy weather. This morning heard several claps of Thunder. Armourer repairing hunting Guns. Cooper amd two Men trimming Hogsheads for Provisions and Furrs. Carpenter Smith and one Man finished the South West Curtain. One Man cleaning the Pikes Hangers and Bayonets. The others about necefsary Jobs. Sent two Men to the back of the Island Goose Tent to serve out Powder &c to the Natives.
Barometer 29.64. Thermometer 43."

Apr. 30
" Thursday Wind NW a strong gale with Snow and Sleet. Carpenter and Afsistants laid open the South East Curtain in order to give It a thorough Repair, Armourer cleaning Hunting Guns. Taylor at work for Trade. Cooper and Afsistants trimming Iron bound Hogsheads. Myself Steward and the two Boys putting the Trading Room and Warehouses in Order against Trading-time. Smith and one Man at the forge. Three Geese seen to day. five Partridges from Hunters.
Barometer 29.80. Thermometer 33."

May 1 1772
" Friday Wind NbE a strong gale with variable weather. Men employed as yesterday. Twenty Partridges from Hunters. Eastern Hunters came for Provisions, gave them Oatmeal as usual.
Barometer 30.16. Thermometer 18."

May 2
" Saturday Wind West a gentle gale with clear weather. Men employed as yesterday. Six Partridges from Hunters. Back of the Island Goofe Hunters came for Provisions, gave them Oatmeal. James Rofs on the mending Hand. Thomas Maddeson picking Oakum being the only thing he has been able to perform since the departure of the Ship. Magnus Taylor in a very low condition and two others down with a Cold which has raged here since August last.
Barometer 30.13. Thermometer 27."

May 3
" Sunday Wind SbW a strong gale with Snow. Divine Service as usual.
Barometer 29.54. Thermometer 34 1/2."

May 4
" Monday Wind WNW a fresh gale with clear weather. Armourer repairing hunting guns. One Man cleaning the Spontoons: Carpenter and two Men about the South East Curtain: Shipwright getting his Tools in order to repair the Craft: Cooper about triffling Jobbs. Smith and one Man at the Forge: The others thorougly sprigging the Tent Poles for Traders use. Mr Hutchins myself and Servant preparing Medicines for Quaching.
Barometer 30.11. Thermometer 23."

May 5
" Tuesday Wind WSW a strong gale with cloudy weather. Men employed as yesterday.
Barometer 29.53. Thermometer 46."

May 6
" Wednesday Wind WNW a fresh gale with clear weather. Tradesmen at their proper duty. The others cutting Stakes and pointing them for the Launch. Goofe Hunters came for Provisions, gave them Oatmeal. They have seen several Geese but none are yet killed.
Barometer 29.84. Thermometer 28."

May 7
" Thursday Wind East a gentle breeze with clear weather. Armourer repairing hunting guns: Smith about necefsary Jobs in his way. Shipwright and one Man repairing the Craft. Carpenter and two Men about the South East Curtain. The others pointing stakes for the Launch. An Indian Man with his family came in to kill Geese, paid his debt honestly. Doctor Myself and Servant employed as before.
Barometer 30.06. Thermometer 12."

May 8
" Friday Wind North Cloudy with Snow. Carpenter at work for the South East Curtain. The others removed the remains of the Hay to its proper Summer place.
Barometer 29.87. Thermometer 13."

May 9
" Saturday Wind NbW a strong gale with clear weather. Men cleaned Houses Yards &c. Two Geese from Hunters, the first this Season. Several have been seen to day. Magnus Taylor and Thomas Maddeson still in a weak condition. James Rofs in a poor way. The Surgeon suspects an approaching Serervey.
Barometer 30.02. Thermometer 29."

May 10
" Sunday Wind NEbE a fresh gale with cloudy weather. Divine Service as usual.
Barometer 29.70. Thermometer 30."

May 11
" Monday Wind EbN a fresh gale cloudy with Snow. Armourer cleaning the Amuntion Pistols. Carpenter and two Men about the South East Curtain. Cooper Sawyer and one Man repairing Paling of the Masters Garden. Smith and one Man at the Forge. Shipwright and one Man at the Repairs of the Boats. The others about necefsary Jobbs. Two Indians came down the River; brought dried Venison, Tongues and Fat. No Geese flying.
NB a piece of Beef weighed only 2 5/8 lb which came out in the Year 1770.
Barometer 29.82. Thermometer 24."

May 12
" Tuesday Wind ENE a fresh gale with cloudy weather. Armourer fitting up furniture to be in Readinefs to repair the Indian Guns. Men employed as yesterday. Eighteen Geese from Hunters.
Barometer 30.29. Thermometer 37."

May 13
" Wednesday Wind ENE a fresh gale with clear weather. Armourer Carpenter Shipwright and Smith with Mates employed as before. Cooper setting up three new Wheel Barrows. The others with a Horse and Cart cleaning the Plantation. Sixteen Geese from Hunters. Gave the Goofe Hunters on both sides of the River some Oatmeal for the last time this Season.
Barometer 30.59. Thermometer 31."

May 14
" Thursday Wind East a light breeze with clear weather. Men employed as yesterday. A Cow Calved a Bull Calf.
Barometer 30.39. Thermometer 33."

May 15
" Friday Wind North a gentle breeze with cloudy weather. Tradesmen at their respective Duties. The Others about various Jobbs. In the Afternoon All Hands cleaning the Plantation ready for the Trading Natives. Eight Geese from the Hunters.
Barometer 30.22. Thermometer 40."

May 16
" Saturday Wind East a fresh gale with clear weather. All Hands cleaned the Plantation. Ten Geese from Hunters. Several white Geese seen to day.
Barometer 29.89. Thermometer 31."

May 17
" Sunday Wind a strong gale at NE cloudy weather with Snow at times. Divine Service as usual. Eight Geese from hunters. Magnus Taylor in a very low Condition. James Rofs and Thomas Maddeson continue much the same as before.
Barometer 29.87. Thermometer 29."

May 18
" Monday Wind NEbE a fresh gale with cloudy weather. Armourer Stocking a hunting gun. Carpenter and Mate about the South East Curtain. Shipwright Cooper and one Man laying on old Lead in place of the new We took off from one of the Outhouses. Smith and Mate making necefsary Iron work for Severn House, such as falling Axes &c. Sawyers sawing boards for Shipwrights use. The others employed about various duty. Twenty Geese from Hunters.
Barometer 30.85. Thermometer 32."

May 19
" Tuesday Wind NE a fresh gale with cloudy weather. Men employed as yesterday. Carpenter finished the South East Curtain. Seven Geese from Hunters.
Barometer 30.02. Thermometer 29."

May 20
" Wednesday WbS a fresh gale with clear weather. Armourer stocking a Hunting Gun. Carpenter examining and Soldering the Lead on the Flankers where leaky. Steward and others Baked a Cask of flour into Biscuit, I having observed my General Charge of Biscuit is three Hundred weight lefs than last Year. Several white Geese and Summer Birds flew to day. The River in a Shattered Condition two Geese from Hunters.
Barometer 29.26. Thermometer 52."

May 21
" Thursday Wind NE cloudy with Snow and Sleet at times. Armourer mending hunting guns. Carpenter and three Men repairing the lower flooring of the North West Curtain. The others about various necefsary Jobbs. Sixty-six Geese from Hunters.
Barometer 29.56. Thermometer 28."

May 22
" Friday Wind ENE a gentle gale with cloudy weather. Armourer repairing Hunting Guns. Carpenter and two Men employed in repairing the Fort. Smith painting the new work. Steward Cooper and Boys putting the Warehouses in order. The others about various necefsary Duties. One Hundred and thirty-nine Geese from Hunters.
Barometer 29.74. Thermometer 24."

May. 23
" Saturday Wind East a fresh gale with clear weather. Cleaned Houses Yards &c. and several Men in the Marsh killing Geese. One Hundred and Eighty Geese from Hunters. The River Ice came down and lodged amongst the Islands above the Fort.
Barometer 30.08. Thermometer 28."

May. 24
" Sunday Wind East a gentle gale with clear weather. Divine Service as usual. Magnus Twatt loft the forefinger of his left hand by the blowing of his Gun which He ignorantly had overcharged, as his Companion had killed three Geese the day before with the same piece. One Hundred and Ninety-one Geese from Hunters.
Barometer 30.05. Thermometer 37."

May 25
" Monday Wind SW a moderate breeze with clear weather. Carpenter about the Repairs of the Fort. Armourer Repairing hunting guns. Shipwright repairing the Craft. One Man white-washing the Fort where needful. Two Men tarring the Out-Houses. The others about various Jobbs. Sixty-eight Geese from Hunters. James Rofs and Magnus Taylor much as before, but Thomas Maddeson doing a little light duty. Ice still quiet and no Water along Shore.
Barometer 29.88. Thermometer 62."

May 26
" Tuesday Wind WSW A strong gale with Rain and Thunder at times, Tradesmen and others employed as yesterday. In the afternoon Men digging the Gardens.
Barometer 29.36. Thermom. 62."

May 27
" Wednesday Wind WbN a moderate gale with clear weather. Armourer painting the Mens upper guard Room. Carpenter making Window frames for the Mens Appartments where decayed. One Man plaistering the Fort where needful. Shipwright and one Man repairing the Craft. Smith making Iron work for ditto. Two Men tarring the Buoys. The others digging the Gardens. One Hundred and Seventy-five Geese from Hunters.
Barometer 29.90. Thermometer 45."

May 28
" Thursday Wind SW a fresh gale with cloudy weather. Men employed as yesterday. One Hundred and fifty-nine Geese from Hunters.
Barometer 29.62. Thermometer 50."

May 29
" Friday Wind WbS a fresh gale with cloudy weather. Armourer repairing Hunting Guns. Carpenter repairing the inside of the Fort. Shipwright and one Man repairing the Craft. Smith and one Man at the Forge. Two Men plaistering the Magazine. The others digging the Gardens. Eighty-Eight Geese from the Hunters. They have been middling plentiful these three days past.
Barometer 29.63. Thermometer 65."

May 30
" Saturday Wind NE a strong gale with cloudy weather. Men employed bringing Geese from back of the Island, afterwards cleaned Houses Yards &c. One Hundred and fifty-four Geese from Hunters.
Barometer 29.94. Thermometer 43."

May 31
" Sunday Wind ENE a strong gale with cloudy weather. Divine Service as usual. One Hundred and Seven Geese to day. James Rofs and Magnus Taylor much in the same condition. South Channel Ice has given way two miles below the Fort. fired a gun and hoisted the flagg as usual.
Barometer 30.05. Thermometer 34 1/2."

June 1 1772
" Monday Wind SE a strong gale with cloudy weather. Armourer cleaning and fresh Oiling the Trading Guns. Carpenter making the Gates. Shipwright repairing the Craft. Two Men plaistering the Magazine. The others about various Jobbs. Four Canoes landed three miles above the Fort, and some of the Natives came dowh along shore with their furrs. The River in a weak condition. Magnus Taylor at the point of Death. One Hundred and fourteen Geese. two Deer and a few tongues from Indians.
Barometer 29.65. Thermometer 42."

June 2
" Tuesday Wind South a strong gale with clear weather. Carpenter making Pipe stems for Indians Leaders. Smith and one Man making falling axes for Severn. Steward and Cooper salting Geese and Venison. Two Men plaistering the Magazine. The others about various duty. Last night the River gave way, and this day three Canoes of home Natives came down; paid their Debt and brought some Venison. Myself and two Boys dealing with the Natives.
Barometer 29.64. Thermometer 60."

June 3
" Wednesday Wind NEbE a fresh gale cloudy weather with Sleet and Rain. Armourer cleaning Trading Guns. Carpenter making Pipe stems for Leading Indians. Cooper trimming up Casks for Furrs. Smith painting the Second and Surgeons Cabbins. The others about various duty. Myself, an English-Indian young Man and the two Boys dealing with the Natives. A Man attending the Gate from 5 in the Morning to 8 O'Clock in the Evening, at which times the Bell rings and Drum beats as a signal for beginning and ending Trade. fifteen fish from Ten Shilling Creek. Magnus Taylor at the point of Death. Goofe Hunters came from back of the Island having killed thirteen Hundred of Geese. paid them off in order to put them out of the way of the Trading Natives.
Thermometer 35."

June 4
" Thursday Wind NE a strong gale with a continuance of Rain. Men employed as yesterday. Last Night Magnus Taylor departed this Life of a Consumption and this Evening interred his Remains. Ice driving in the River. finished Trading with the Natives.
Thermometer 35."

June 5
" Friday Wind NE a strong gale with cloudy weather. Armourer cleaning hunting guns. Carpenter about the Gates. Cooper trimming Casks for Furrs. Smith and one Man making falling Hatchets for Severn. Sent two Cutters over the River, brought Mr Cocking and the Eastern Goofe Hunters, having killed two thousand three hundred Geese. Several Indians gone. The Ice has got a clear pafsage out to Sea.
Thermometer 32."

June 6
" Saturday Wind NE a strong gale with cloudy weather. Tradesmen employed as yesterday. paid the Indians for killing Geese and put them over the River out of the way of the Trading Natives. Tried for fish in Ten Shilling Creek but caught none the fresh being yet too great. Three Geese from Hunters. James Rofs much in the same condition a real object of pity.
Thermometer 32."

June 7
" Sunday Wind EbN a fresh gale with clear weather. Divine Service as usual.
Thermometer 37."

June 8
" Monday Wind East a gentle breeze cloudy with Rain at times. Armourer cleaning Trading Guns. Carpenter about the Gates. Shipwright and two Men repairing the Long-Boat. Brought two Rafts of Firewood fron ten Shilling Creek. All the Indians gone. Such a large fresh in the River that the Boats never winded to day; thought it prudent to take them on shore in case they should be carried to Sea by the Drift Wood that is driving down the River.
Thermometer 48."

June 9
" Tuesday Wind NE a strong gale cloudy with Rain Sleet and Snow at times. In the morning all Hands carried firewood up the bank, afterwards Tradesmen at their respective duties. Sent Nine Men to Ten Shilling Creek to raft Firewood. Five Canoes came to Trade. A few Sturgeon from the Indians. a few other Fish to day.
Thermometer 38."

June 10
" Wednesday Wind NNE moderate clear weather. Men about necefsary duty. Put several Home Natives over the River. Busy Trading with the Indians. five Canoes came to Trade. Mr Cocking fully determined to examinine In-land if Health permit.
Thermometer 43."

June 11
" Thursday Wind SW a fresh gale with clear weather at times. Armourer repairing Indian guns. Carpenter about the Gates. Shipwright and two Men repairing the Longboat. The others about necefsary Duty. A few fish from our Nets that are set at Ten Shilling Creek. finished Dealing with the Natives.
Barometer 29.69. Thermometer 60."

June 12
Friday Wind WSW a strong Gale with Rain at times. Men employed as Yesterday. Indians gone and seven more Canoes came to Trade.
Barometer 29.00. Thermometer 59."

June 13
" Saturday Wind NNW A fresh gale with cloudy weather. Tradesmen about their Respective Duties. Indians Traded and gone. Our Men have made Seven Rafts but We are puzzled to get them home., the fresh being so great in the River. A few fish from our Nets.
Barometer 29.85. Thermometer 38."

June 14
" Sunday Wind NE a Strong gale with clear weather. Divine Service as usual. Late last Night the Men came home with Seven Rafts.
Barometer 30.00. Thermometer 39."

June 15
" Monday Wind ENE a Strong gale with Cloudy weather. All Hands carried the firewood up the Bank. Sent a Letter to Churchill with some of our Home Natives who are gone to see their Friend. A few fish from our Nets.
Barometer 30.13. Thermometer 49."

" To Mr Mofes Norton Chief at Prince of Wales Fort.
York Fort 15th June 1772
Good Sir,
An Opportunity now serving I with pleasure let you know how We go on at this place, after having got clear of a long Winter and Spring that have been attended with nothing but Mortality having since my last interred Magnus Taylor who died of a Consumption, and another of our Men blew off his finger by ignorantly overloading his Gun, but is now doing well. Our Goofe Season middling having salted three thousand Geese. I can form no great judgement as yet of Trade, having only had down a few Debtors. I sincerely wish both of Us a Good Trade, and succefs to Your Northern Expeditions. I am
Good Sir
Your obedient
Humble Servant
Andrew Graham"

June 16
" Tuesday Wind NE a fresh gale with clear weather. Carpenter making a door for the Warehouse. Shipwright and Mate repairing the Longboat. Armourer mending Indian Guns. Cooper trimming Casks for Furrs. Sloop-Master and eight Men went to bring up the Shallop to her Moorings, but did not succeed the Tide being small. Six Canoes came to Trade, poorly gooded, a few fish from our Nets.
Barometer 30.13. Thermometer 49."

June 17
" Wednesday Wind NbE a strong gale with cloudy rainy weather. Tradesmen about their respective duty. Sailors and several of our other Men employed bringing the Craft from their winter station. Two Canoes came to trade.
Barometer 29.17. Thermometer 68."

June 18
" Thursday Wind SW a gentle breeze with rain at times. Men employed as yesterday. Traded with the Natives and ten Canoes more came to trade. A few fish from the nets.
Barometer 29.61. Thermometer 68."

June 19
" Friday Wind NbW a strong gale with snow and rain at times. Men and boats went and brought part of the Geese from the Fourteens rivers. Busy dealing with the Natives; A fine haul of Jack and Trout fish from the nets.
Barometer 29.49. Thermometer 31."

June 20
" Saturday Wind NE a fresh gale with clear weather. Shipwright finished the Longboat and put her into the River. We have all our Craft riding abreast the Fort. Thirty five Canoes came to trade with Isaac Batt and Lewis Primow, informed me the best part of our trade was stopt by the Canadian Pedlars. Men with one Boat brought four Casks Geese from the Fourteens Rivers. A few fish from the nets. The Fort leakes in so many places that gives me great trouble.
Barometer 28.99. Thermometer 49."

June 21
" Sunday Wind NE a strong gale with cloudy weather. Gave the Natives bread prunes and bargoe. the Drum beats evening and morning all quiet and regular. Received a packet from Churchill for medicines. A fine parcel of fish from our nets.
Barometer - Thermometer 42."

" From Mr Mofes Norton Chief at Prince of Wales Fort.
Prince of Wales Fort 12th June 1772
Dear Sir
I take this opportunity to Inquire after Your Welfare and those under Your Command, with hopes to heare your all well. I received every article safe you was so kind as to send us which is charged accordingly in our accounts and am greatly obliged to you for them. It gave us all great concern to hear of the malancholy affair that happened at York Fort but Gods will be done. we have also followed your Noble example of Benevolence in contributing our Mites for the future support of that poor unhappy Man James Rofs if he should survive his present misfortune have sent a rough copy of our contribution which amounts to £ 49-7-6 to be made payable to him in a general Bill which shall be conveyed to him the first oppertunity when properly signed and entered in our Account Books. Every Man at this Fort very readily bestowed something according to their Capacities, God only knows whose fate may be next. We have had a very sickly time of it since you heard from us Last on the 31st Ult. Nicholas Johnston died after a long Illnefs of Perupnomeney besides 4 Natives at this present period Mr Isaac Leask is dangerously ill and has been for a considerable time with Rhumatick pains attended with violent swellings. If Mr Hutchins can contribute any thing for his Relief it will be very agreeable as our Surgeon has done his endeavours for the best. But Mr Leask is no better his disorder proceeded originally from a violent cold and sore throat he had when he came from the Woods last Christmafs be pleased to dispatch the Bearers back as fast as pofsible. My motives for sending 3 Indians is that as they are very liable to be sick or lame with hard travelling one can proceed with the exprefs they are upon while the other takes care of the afflicted as my last packet of two Indians was 12 days Coming from your Fort one of which falling sick and was obliged to be kalled? by the other and the Dogs the greater part of the way have sent you 6 knives and forks which you need not Charge I will be sure to send the Bricklayer by the Sloop and shall be glad to have him back by the Sloop again as he has got much to do in the fall I hope before now you have heard from our Friends down the Bay. Our Spring Goose season 4850 I had above 150 Hunters employed if the Geese had been plenty we should have had a fine Season but they was long a coming and soon gone being fine Weather the Partridges also failed us in the Spring remarkably so that our Men at present is at half a Goose per Man a Day till I see how provisions comes in. God grant us better times have had but very little trade since you heard from us last I with sincerity wish you all the happinefs this Country can afford and am Dear Sir
your most Obliged
Humble Servant
Moses Norton
PS. My Officers and self presents our Respectfull Compliments to Mr Graham and the Gentlemen of his Mefs."

" To Mr Moses Norton Chief at Prince of Wales Fort.
York Fort 22d June 1772
Dear Sir
Yesterday I received your favours and are realy sorry to hear of your being visited with mortality and sicknefs. Mr Hutchins will give his advice in Mr Leasks Case to the best of his knowledge. Hope he will be recovered before this arrived at You.

I return you hearty thanks for the knives and forks James Rofs prays for your prosperity and all under your Command. Nobly done of the Gentlemen at Churchill No news from the Bay.

Since I wrote you a few days ago I have had down fifty one Canoes of Inland Natives with Isaac Batt and Lewis Primow who gives a shocking account of the Canadian Pilferers indeed the Bundles seems to have been cleaned of the prime cased Cats &c. Mr Cocking is going inland who (if health permit) will give the Company a true account which they much want. I wish you succefs and am
Dear Sir
Your Obedient Servant
Andrew Graham
PS. the Indians sets out directly. Our Compliments to You and Gentlemen of Your Mefs."

June 22
" Monday Wind NE a strong gale with cloudy weather. busy dealing with the Natives they are poorly gooded and what furs they have brought are the refuse of the Canadian Pedlars however as it is vain to make bad worse I am giving great encouragement and streatching every nerve to break their connection with them. Two Deer from the North River. Early this morning returned the Churchill Packet. Mr Hutchins having sent his advice also the London practice of Physick. A few fish from the Nets.
Thermometer 39 1/2."

June 23
" Tuesday Wind and weather as yesterday. Carpenter about the gates. Armourer repairing Indians guns The others attending the Works. Busy dealing with the Natives gave them bargoe bread and prunes in plenty. A brave parcel of fine Jack from our Nets.
Thermometer 39."

June 24
" Wednesday Wind NE a moderate gale with pleasant weather. Armourer repairing Indians guns. Carpenter about the gates. Smith and one Man making iron work for the flagg-staff. Sailors rigged the Longboat. Busy trading with the Natives one half of them gone gave them bargoe bread and prunes and I have treated them in such a manner that they have faithfully promised that they will do better next Year. As Isaac Batts time is expired I have detained him at the Factory. Mr Cocking and Lewis Primow prepairing to go Inland. James Rofs not yet heal of his wounds.
Thermometer 52."

June 25
" Thursday Wind WSW a moderate gale with clear weather. Tradesmen employed about their respective duty. four Men in the Longboat stoning for the Ship. Sent four Men to ten shilling creek to raft firewood. Cleared the Natives and twenty two Canoes more came to trade. Received a letter from Inland which shall be sent home to Your Honours. A few fish from the Nets.
Thermometer 60."

June 26
" Friday Wind variable a fresh gale with foggy weather. Most part of the Natives gone and seventeen canoes of Asine-poets came to trade. Longboat brought two loads of stones. A few fish from the nets.
Thermometer 45."

June 27
" Saturday Wind NE a strong gale and rainy weather. Busy dealing with the Natives. Mr Cocking set out on his Journey inland. Gave the Natives bargoe bread and prunes. A few fish from the nets.
Thermometer 39."

June 28
" Sunday Wind variable a hevy gale with thunder and lightning. Divine Service as usual. Most part of the Pegogoma and Keskackewan Indians gone. Gave the Asinepoets bargoe bread and prunes.
Thermometer 37."

June 29
" Monday Wind and weather as yesterday. Carpenter putting new lead on the Sheds. Armourer repairing guns. Longboat employed bringing stones. Lewis Primow returned Inland with the remainder of the Natives. Traded with the Asinepoets and gave them bargoe bread and prunes. One old Indian man died of a pleurisy.
Thermometer 45."

June 30
" Tuesday Wind WbN a moderate gale with clear weather. Traded and finished with the Asinepoets. Seventeen canoes of North River Natives came acrofs the Island to trade and pay their debt. Took up the nets to clean.
Thermometer 61."

July 1 1772
" Wednesday Wind variable a moderate breeze with clear weather Plenty of Musketoes. Carpenter repairing the Fort where needfull. Armourer repairing Indians guns. Men brought four Rafts of firewood. Gave the Indians bargoe bread and prunes. Asinepoets gone. Packt five thousand eight hundred and thirty made Beaver in Wolves and Parchment Moose. Set two nets for fish.
Thermometer 68 1/2."

July 2
" Thursday Wind SW a moderate gale with clear weather. Men carried the wood up the bank. Traded with the Natives gave them bargoe bread and prunes they are the best gooded Natives that has been here this season such is the result of trusting and putting the Natives from the Fort early in the fall. A few fish from the nets.
Thermometer 75."

July 3
" Friday Wind variable light breezes with hazy weather. Longboat stoning for the Ship. Carpenter and one Man employed about the repairs of the Fort. Armourer cleaning hunting guns finished packing furs for the present. no more than twenty one Bundles of whole parchment Beaver at present in the Fort and what few furs I have received are mostly damaged and what the Pedlars inland would not take. A few fish from the nets.
Thermometer 51."

July 4
" Saturday Wind variable a fresh gale with pleasant weather. Indians gone. Sent four Men in the Cutter to the fourteens River for Geese and in the evening returned three men to Ship River to paint the Beacon. The Others carried the stones up to the bank side and hauled the sean a little below the Fort, caught forty fine Tickomeg.
Thermometer 71."

July 5
" Sunday Wind variable a fresh gale with rain at times. Divine Service as usual.
Thermometer 79."

July 6
" Monday Wind NE a strong gale with foggy weather. Carpenter and four Men putting down the Launch. The Others cleared the stones below the Fort in order to haul the sean at all convenient times fourteen fish from the nets and a few small Birds from hunters.
Thermometer 52."

July 7
" Tuesday Wind and Weather variable a fresh gale with clear weather. Carpenter and four men putting down the Launch. The others stoning and hauled the sean caught fourteen tickomeg. Four canoes of Inland Natives came to trade informed me that they spoke with Thomas Corry in the Great Leak on his way to the Grand Fort with seven large Canoes loaded with Beaver, Cats cased, Bears, Otters, Quiquahaks and a few Wolves accompanied by Wappennefsew our Leader and another of their own who does not trade at Your Honours Settlements. Received a second letter from the Pedlars.
Thermometer 50."

July 8
" Wednesday Wind variable a fresh gale with clear pleasant weather. Men employed as yesterday. Gave the Indians bargoe bread and prunes. Caught a few tickameg with the sean and received a few small birds from hunters. Several Home-guards came in no Deer stirring.
Thermometer 70."

July 9
" Thursday Wind and Weather variable. Indians traded and gone. Armourer repairing guns. Carpenter and four Men putting down the Launch. Sailors rigging the Craft. Others stoning for the Ship. At this present time I observe about thirty Canoes are come round the point of Marsh and brought too for the night have sent them pipes and tobacco to smoak as usual.
Thermometer 80."

July 10
" Friday Wind variable with clear serene weather. Carpenter finished the launch. Armourer repairing Indians guns thirty four Canoes came to trade pretty well gooded. Gave them bargoe, bread, and prunes. A few fish from the nets and sean.
Thermometer at 3 PM 90."

July 11
" Saturday Wind variable with clear serene weather busy trading with the Natives. four Canoes of Inland Natives came to trade with whom came John Cole late Servant to the Canadian Pedlars. A few fish from the Nets.
Thermometer 85."

July 12
" Sunday Wind variable a strong gale with cloudy weather rained hard this morning Divine Service as usual.
Thermometer 57."

July 13
" Monday Wind NE a strong gale with cloudy weather. Carpenter making the Gate posts Armourer repairing guns Smith and one Man making iron work for the launch gave the Indians bread prunes and bargoe. Engaged John Cole in your Honours Service for three years at twelve pounds per Annum. busy dealing with the Natives. sent four Men up the river for our Beacon-sticks. a few fine fish from our nets.
Thermometer 43."

July 14
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as yesterday Indians lay wind-bound Men about various necefsary duty the four Men returned with the Beacons.
Thermometer 52."

July 15
" Wednesday Wind NNW a moderate gale with clear weather. Armourer repairing guns. Carpenter about the gates. Shipwright about the Shallop. Smith and one man making iron work for the new gates Cooper trimming casks for furs. Sawyer making a Beacon step. Sailors about the Craft The others brought the remains of the Geese from the Goose tent. North river Indians gone. A few fine fish from the nets, One Canoe came down the River brought few furs and some Deer's flesh.
Thermometer 55."

July 16
" Thursday Wind NNE a fresh gale with foggy weather. Men employed as yesterday. traded with the Naives and fitted out John Cole for a Journey inland to promote your Honours interest. a few Deer from home Natives.
Thermometer 52."

" York Fort 16th July 1772
Good Sir
I think it proper to acquaint you that I have entertained John Cole late Servant to Thomas Corry the Canadian Pedlar of whom you heard before your departure have sent him inland to promote the Companys interest and he is to return next Summer John Erskine succeeds Corry at the Cedar Lake I wish you health succefs and remain
Good Sir
Your sincere well wisher and
Humble Servant
Andrew Graham
Mr Hutchins Joins with me in wishing you all happinefs."

July 17
" Friday Wind NE a strong gale with foggy weather. Men bringing stones for the Ship. Sent John Cole inland to promote your interest.
Thermometer 53."

July 18
" Saturday Wind and Weather as yesterday. Men employed about the Craft and stoning for the Ship. A few Birds from hunters.
Thermometer 47."

July 19
" Sunday Wind SW and moderate clear weather. Divine Service as usual. A few Deer from Natives and a fine haul of fish from the Nets.
Thermometer 52."

July 20
" Monday Wind SW a fresh gale warm weather with rain at times. Set the inner Beacon. Several home Natives came in with dried meat, fat and few Deer's Pelts. A fine haul of fish from the Nets.
Thermometer 52."

July 21
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. Sent six Men up the River to raft some firewood and timber Packt Wolves.
Thermometer 72."

July 22
" Wednesday Wind and Weather variable Sloopmaster attempted to set the outer Beacon but the tide not ebbing low enough. A few Deer's pelts and dried meat from Indians. A few fish from the Nets.
Thermometer 62."

July 23
" Thursday Wind and Weather variable with a few drops of rain. Sloopmaster laid two Buoys in the River. Carpenter about the Gate posts. Smith at work at the forge. Armourer cleaning hunting guns the Others brought a boat full of lime-stone. Several Home Natives gone to Nelson river to kill Deer.
Thermometer 54."

July 24
" Friday Wind SE a moderate gale with clear Weather. Tradesmen Employed about their respective duty. The others brought Lime-stone and rigging the Craft. A few fish from the Nets.
Thermometer 44."

July 25
" Saturday Wind NE a fresh gale with clear Weather. Set a Beacon and brought Lime-stone. A few fish from the Nets.
Thermometer 44."

July 26
" Sunday Wind NE a strong gale with cloudy weather. Divine Service as usual. Sent three Men up the river to afsist the Rafters.
Thermometer 51."

July 27
" Monday Wind and Weather as yesterday. Armourer repairing hunting guns. Carpenter making the Gate posts Sawyers cutting plank. Sailors rigging the Craft. Shipwright examined the Sloops bottom and found her in a good Condition. A few fine fish from the Nets.
Thermometer 47."

July 28
" Tuesday Wind NE a moderate gale with cloudy weather. Tradesmen Employed as yesterday. A few fish from the Nets.
Thermometer 45."

July 29
" Wednesday Wind variable with clear pleasant Weather. Set the outer Beacon. Home Natives came in brought dried meat, fat and Deer-skins. A few fish from the Nets.
Thermometer 62."

July 30
" Thursday Wind variable with clear pleasant Weather. Tradesmen about their respective duty. A large Quantity of dried meat and fat from Home Natives. A few fish from the nets.
Thermometer 65."

July 31
" Friday Wind variable with clear pleasant weather. Sloopmaster and Sailors about the Craft finished packing and shut up your Honours Books Trade 21,577 1/2 made Beaver; A few fish from the Nets.
Thermometer 70."

Aug. 1 1772
" Saturday Wind Wind NE a brisk gale with clear Weather. Myself went up to the woods with two Indians to foreward the the Rafters. Men at home clean'd Houses Yards &c. A few Small Birds from hunters and a fine parcel of fish from the Nets. Sloop went down to set the outer Buoy.
Thermometer 67."

Aug. 2
" Sunday Wind and Weather variable with thunder & lightning and rain at times this morning at Seven hours returned with the Rafters and fifteen floats containing one hundred and twenty three Choice pieces timber and firewood. At noon the Men returned to their tent.
Thermometer 63."

Aug. 3
" Monday Wind NNW a fresh gale with foggy rainy weather. Sloop returned but could not lay the outer buoy the Weather so changeable. Armourer stocking a hunting Gun. Smith and one Man making hinges &c for the new Gates. Sent four men to the hay Island to cut grafs sent with them the smallest size Horse. A few fish from the nets.
Thermometer 46 1/2."

Aug. 4
" Tuesday Wind SbW a moderate gale with pleasant weather. Men and Home natives getting the timber up the bank.
Thermometer 61."

Aug. 5
" Wednesday Wind SW a fresh gale with clear Weather. Men employed as yesterday. Sloop sailed in order to lay the outer Buoy. A few Small Birds to Day.
Thermometer 81."

Aug. 6
" Thursday Wind variable with clear pleasant weather. Men with the afsistance of the Home Natives getting the firewood up the bank. a few fish from the nets. Sloop returned having laid the outer Buoy.
Thermometer 83."

Aug. 7
" Friday wind NE a fresh gale with cloudy Weather. Men and Indians carrying the timber and wood up the bank. Rafters brought four floats of firewood. Severn Sloop arrived brought the Bay Letters bad news from thence. Many of the Albany Natives has eat one another and one Young Man crushed to death by a Wood pile falling on him he being sleeping under it and in liquor.
Thermometer 65."

Aug. 8
" Saturday Wind WbN a fresh gale with clear Weather. Our Nen with the afistance of the Severn people carrying the firewood up the bank. a few fish and Small Birds to day.
Thermometer 67."

Aug. 9
" Sunday Wind WbN a strong gale with cloudy weather. Divine service as usual. A full congregation and all clean and well behaved Servants.
Thermometer 48."

" A Letter from Albany Fort to York Fort Dated 29th June 1772
My Dear Friend
Yours of December no date as also one from Mr Jacobs of Dec. 8th 1770 I had the pleasure to receive June 27th 1771.

Am very sorry for the misfortune that befel the three poor men and as the best way to Show our concern was to help the poor Survivor. The Men at this place have made a small Collection for him of 16 £ 13 Sh. A list of the Contributors with the sums Subscrib'd by each. I do myself the pleasure to enclose to you; its counter part will be sent to the Company.

I did myself the pleasure to write to my Northern friends the 29th Ult. since which nothing very material hath happened at this place.

The 27th Instant A Boat arrived from Moose Fort to desire We would spare Mr Jarvis Our Surgeon to afsist Mr Hitchin to cure Mr John Garbut of a Complication of Disorders which had seized him on the 12th instant, all others at that place when the Boat came away were well.

Our Trade is very bad not 5000 at present provisions very scarce. A little fresh fish is all we get, the Flanker is in hand still, Brown a sad tool and always ailing.
I wish you a fine trade plenty of provisions, health, and peace, and a good sight of the Companys Ship & am
Dear Friend
Your Loving Brother & Humble
Servant
Humphrey Marten
PS. Our Compliment to the Gentlemen of your mefs."

Aug. 10
" Monday Wind WNW a moderate gale with clear weather. unloaded the Severn Sloop and in the morning she went down to five fathom hole to wait the arrival of the Ship. A few fine fish from the nets & Small Birds from hunters.
Thermometer 57."

Aug. 11
" Tuesday Wind North and moderate Weather. Men brought home hay. Carryed firewood up the Bank and hauled the Sean net, a few fish. Sent two Scyths to Severn by two Indians that belongs there.
Thermometer 44."

Aug. 12
" Wednesday Wind NNE a moderate gale with clear weather. Armourer about odd Jobs. Carpenter making two stands for Brandy Casks. Smith making iron rakes, the others brought two loads of hay. sent the Grey Horse up to the hay Island the Small Horse being almost expended with old age. A few fish and Small Birds from fishermen & Hunters.
Thermometer 65."

Aug. 13
" Thursday Wind ENE a stiff gale with clear weather. Men employed as yesterday. A few fish, three Deer & tongues from the North river. One man on the sick list put down the Deer Snares.
Thermometer 52."

Aug. 14
" Friday Wind variable a moderate gale with pleasant weather. Tradesmen about their respective duty. Myself, Surgeon, two old Indians, and five Servants went up the River distance four miles and a half - hauled the sean neat caught one hundred & eighty fine tickameg and Jack fish, being the largest Quantity Caught here in the memory of the oldest of your Honours Servants and which will be of great Utility in the Summer when fresh food is scarce which is annually the case at York Fort from the beginning of June till the middle of August or latter when the Deer Season comes on. One man attending the Deer hedge nothing stirring. A few fish from the nets.
Thermometer 53."

Aug. 15
" Saturday wind NE a fresh gale with rain at times. hauled the Sean net at the point of Marsh. Caught a large Perch and a great many Suckers. Sloopers came up gave them seven Days fresh food and in the evening they returned on board. Tarr'd the gun Carriadges at the lower Battery. A few Deer and fish to day. A great herd of Deer been seen to day above the Fort but none caught in our hedge. Hay-makers came for food.
Thermometer 53."

Aug. 16
" Sunday Wind variable a fresh gale with clear pleasant weather divine Service as usual; All the home natives after Deer four to day, and a few fish from our nets.
Thermometer 51."

Aug. 17
" Monday Wind SW a moderate gale with clear pleasant weather. Carpenter making two stands for Casks. Smith straightening the Sloops anchor. Cooper making a bucket for the Severn Sloop. the others broke Lime-stone and brought two boat load of hay. Steward salting venison. Sixteen Deer from Indians and a fine parcel of fish from our nets. In the evening the Severn Sloops Boat returned on board.
Thermometer 63."

Aug. 18
" Tuesday Wind SW a strong gale with clear pleasant weather. Tradesmen at their respective duty. The others broke Lime-stone and brought two boat load of hay.
Thermometer 74."

Aug. 19
" Wednesday Wind Wind and Weather as yesterday. Shipwrights building a Canoe. Smith at the forge. Armourer stocking a hunting gun. Carpenter and the others prepairing to fix the new gate posts. Cooper and two men trimming & washing Hogsheads for provisions.
Thermometer 76."

Aug. 20
" Thursday Wind NbE a fresh gale with cloudy weather, thunder lightening and a heavy rain in the morning. The Men employed putting up our outer Gates & doing other necefsary duty. At 11 hours saw the Ship in the offane? in the afternoon anchored in five fathom hole, in the evening Mr Jacobs and Captain Fowler came on shore, after which I delivered up my Charge to Mr Jacobs as ordered. A few fish & Small Birds to day.
Thermometer 52
Andrew Graham"

" NB The observation of the Thermometer was taken at noon each day."

" To Mr Moses Norton Chief at Prince of Wales Fort
26th of August 1772
Dear Sir
After we parted with Captain Richards on the 14th Int. we met with a large Quantity of ice which to weather we stood to the Nward within ten miles of Cape Churchill and then beat all the way to York Fort where we arrived the 20th found Mr Graham and the other Servants well but was very sorry to hear so great a fall in the trade here and at Severn we hope your trade is increased so as to help out the deficiency here; I expect to hear from you very soon and what ever you want that can be had here let me know and it shall be sent you except tents and leather being but three tents in the Factory and not so much Leather as to serve ten Men so that I shall be in great want of these Articles to supply our Men with Shoes &c in the winter. I hope Mr Hearne's Journey has been prosperous so as to give you hopes of making use of his informations for the Company's benefit. I conclude with my best wishes for your Health and Succefs in the Company's affairs and in hopes to hear of the safe arrival & departure of Capt. Richards I remain Dear Sir
Your Most Obedient Servant
Ferdinand Jacobs
It gives me much concern to hear of the Melancholy accident to Rofs and the lofs of the other men."

Aug. 21
" Friday Wind variable a fresh gale with rain at times. The men busy unloading the Craft. four Deer from North River Indians.
Thermometer 57."

Aug. 22
" Saturday Wind NWbW a Strong gale with rainy weather. Men Employed as yesterday.
Thermometer 49."

Aug. 23
" Sunday Wind NW a strong gale with cloudy weather Chief-mate and several men came up from the Ship. Two Deer from the hedge and two Deer from Indians. Received Henry Moore on shore.
Thermometer 53."

Aug. 24
" Monday Wind NE a fresh gale with foggy Weather. Men busy unloading the Craft.
Thermometer 44."

Aug. 25
" Tuesday Wind NW a fresh gale with Cloudy weather. Men employed as yesterday
Thermometer 45."

Aug. 26
" Wednesday Wind NW a fresh gale with cloudy weather. Men busy unloading the Craft. Some deers flesh from Indians.
Thermometer 45-"

Aug. 27
" Thursday Wind NW with moderate weather and rain at times. Put on board part of the Homeward bound Cargo.
Thermometer 47."

Aug. 28
" Friday Wind NNW a moderate breeze with clear weather. put on board the remains of the Homeward bound Cargo. Received a packet from Prince of Wales's Fort all well there received James Flett and Nathaniel Dent on Shore.
Thermometer 52."

" From Mr Moses Norton Chief at Prince Wales's Fort
Prince Wales's Fort 14th August 1772
Dear Sir
Having packt our furs I take this opportunity to Inform you that I received your two letters of the 13th & 22d of June and we are sorry to hear of the death of Magnus Taylor also of the accident that happened to the man's? hand. We have since my last to you interr'd William Mathews Ship Carpenter who died on the 15th Ult. of a lingering Consumption. Mr Leask and we are much obliged to you and Mr Hutchins for his advice and what you sent for his relief he is now bravely and has been for some time.

I am sorry the Pedlars has intercepted your trade. The Cased Cats that the uplanders brought us was also but indifferent which did not amount to 400. We wish Mr Cocking his health and safe return again to the fort.

Mr Hearne returned from his Journey from the Copper-mine River in perfect health on the 30th of last June who has been as far to the Northward as 71°- 54 North latitude and 25°- 09 longtitude to the Westward of Churchill the river prooves by Mr Hearn's report to be so full of falls and shoald-water so as not to be Navigable but had it been otherwise it would have been of great importance to the Company it being so well situated in so plentiful a Country for furrs &c, however it will be a satisfaction to the Company and I hope will put a final end to any discoveries of a Northwest pafsage by way of Hudson's Bay.

We have had but a poor season of Fish and other fresh provisions this Summer. The Churchill Sloop arrived yesterday with a tolerable good trade as usuall who left the Brig at Marble Island still on the fishery they having got but one small whale when Mr Johnston left them. We got a small Whale at the Rivers Mooth before the Vefsels sail'd which proceeded ten hogsheads of neat oil the Whale bone is but little and short I hope you have had a good trade. Ours at present stands at 19,555 1/6 made Beaver which is more than what we expected. As soon as the Ships arrive shall send a Packet to you immediately and shall be glad to hear from you on the same occasion. I compute Mr Johnstons trade to be near 1000 Skins made Beaver as it is not yet packt.

I wish all may be well with our friends down the Bay as we have not heard from them so long.

I wish you a happy sight of the Ship and good news from England and may health and happinefs attend you is the desire of
Dear Sir
Your Most Obedient
Humble Servant
PS. Myself and Officers presents our Respectful Compliments to Mr Graham and the Gentlemen of his Mefs and to the Capt. of the Ship and his Officers also to Mr Atkinson and we hope he has had a good trade at Severn. Some of Your home Indians came here to see their friends who is on their return back to your place. We have had in all down this Summer 116 Canoes but some of them very poorly gooded. I understand that several of them is going to war (tho') I have done all I can to perswade them from it and to employ their time for the good of the Trade."

Aug. 29
" Saturday Wind variable a fresh gale with clear pleasant Weather. Craft went down with the Ship's water and the Homeward-bound Pafsengers.
Thermometer 58."

" An Account of the unhappy accident which befell James Rofs James Thomson and John Farrant belonging to York Fort as gathered at times from the Survivor"

---

Jan. 6 1772
" Monday The above three Men set out in the morning from the Factory to go over Port-nelson to kill Partridges; they went acrofs the Island and lay that night at a Creek about four miles below where Flambro House formerly stood.
Thermometer 0."

Jan. 7
" Tuesday About eight or nine a Clock in the morning they proceeded to pafs over the River. By some exprefsions drop'd from Rofs in his reveries it should seem that he proposed to go farther up, but was over-perswaded by the other two; however seeing the smoke of open Water far below them they struck off right acrofs. They had walked a considerable time before they were surprized by observing they went very fast down the River, and turning round they saw open water above and below them a convincing proof they were adrift. The ice they were on was a large Smooth field. The Sleds and two Dogs were with them. The Ebb carried them out to Sea.
Thermometer +13."

Jan. 8
" Wednesday The tide of flood brought them into the same River but not so far up as before, and near a quarter of a mile from ground ice or Land. The weather was still very mild, it snowed last night, They took the tent off the Sled and wrapping themselves in it thus spent the night. In the baggage was some Cake the Men had baked the Day before they left the Fort, and a bottle with near a quart of Gin; they took a little of each now & then for food.
Thermometer +7."

Jan. 9
" Thursday The Weather still continued remarkably mild and clear. They were drove up the River again by the flood but lower down than yesterday as the tides were falling off. They came not near to Land or Ground ice, so continued on the same piece, and went out again with the Ebb. The Cake & Gin were not yet expended as they used it very sparingly. The Tent was usefull as before.
Thermometer -4."

Jan. 10
" Friday The Weather very mild small breezes of Wind from the SE quarter a little snow fell in the night the flood brought them again? into the River but not so far up as yesterday being only a little way within the point of Land; yet they had hopes of getting on shore, where J Rofs took his Gun some powder, shot, Blanket and the first Skip'pa'to'gan he could lay hold of &c. these he put in his partridge bag. Farrant took only a Beaver Coat. Thomson was so anxious to gain the Shore that he would stay for nothing but sat out running: One of the Dogs accompanied them the other stayed with the Sleds. after going a Considerable distance the Men found it impofsible to get of the River, and turned to go to their Sleds, but to add to their misfortune the Sleds drove past them, and they saw the Dog eating and tearing the tent provisions &c (for they had ten Days salt provisions and flour with them from the Factory) without their being able to come at them. Their little stock of Cake was all expended this day. The tide of Ebb carried them far into the Bay out of Sight of Land where Dunter Geese and other Sea Fowl hovered over them in great numbers. Rofs & Thomson lay under the Blanket and Farrant used the Beaver Coat.
Thermometer 0."

Jan. 11
" Saturday The Weather tho' Colder than on any of the proceeding Days was yet very favourable. The Wind from the SW and thereabouts moderate Breezes the night was overcast but the Day Clear. The unhappy Men had seen Land to the Eastward and again to the Northward as the flood made it drew nearer to the latter, and the ice closing about high water afforded them hopes of once more getting on shore; but the Attempt did not succeed though they walked from piece to piece the major part of the Day. John Farrant fell into the River in leaping on to another piece and was nearly carried under before his wretched Companions could haul him out. Rofs had a Clean Shirt in his Partridge bag this? they put upon Farrant and Belted the Beaver Coat round him afterwards being quite Spent he laid down while Rofs and Thomson gathered pieces of Shelving ice which had been broken off and placed round him as a Barricade against the Weather they had a piece of Sugar left and half of it was all they subsisted on this Day.
Thermometer -15."

Jan. 12
" Sunday Though it was very warm all this Day yet it was very disagreable and blew very hard from the North East and pretty much snow fell which caused it to drift greatly Day and night. the piece of ice they were on had grounded before Day break and when the flood made the Water began to come upon the ice they called to Farrant to rise but the poor Man was freed by Death from all his troubles. Rofs and Thomson continued on or near the same piece until the Water had fallen away. While they sat weeping near the Corps a Large white Seal came upon the ice did not middle with the Body but looked very stedfastly on them, Thomson told Rofs to kill it but the other refused saying "I myself perhaps may soon be dead." They afterwards went from piece to piece but the Weather being thick they knew not where they went. the next flood again confined them to one Spot. the Sugar that remained was their food this day and now all their Stores were expended.
Thermometer +4."

Jan. 13
" Monday a stiff Wind still continued from North W with thick Drifting weather the morning was mild but as night approached it grew very Sharp and cold. Thomson and Rofs walked again amongst the rough ice when the Water ebbed out, the hands of the former now swelled so large that himself with the help of Rofs could not force them into his Mittens. His face also was much enlarged and he became delirious, for on Rofs telling him that in two days they would reach the Factory He asked what - naming Melster in the Isle of Wafs Orkneys were he was born and belonged to. The flood again Confined them and here poor Thomson died just as the Moon sunk below the Horizon. Rofs stayed by the Corps weeping until morning.
Thermometer 0."

Jan. 14
" Tuesday the gale was not quite abated but the Cold increased and tho' very rimy yet the Sun Shone early in the morning the water flowed upon the ice where Rofs remained and soon after it drove a large piece over poor Thomson's Body and Rofs with difficulty got upon it. The Ebb running out and the Sun bcoming visible He directed his course by it, and after walking all the Day over rough ice He reached the Shore just about the Goose Tent at the Back of the Island where a path is cut strait from High water mark to the Factory (it is called Tom Hutchin's path) The unfortunate man imagining himself on the Eastern Shore mistook his opening for some river or Creek on that Coast so walked up until he came a little above the Burnt tent. Here he found where he was, for he turned back and Struck into the Right pathway He now broke down some sticks and endeavoured to kindle a fire but he had got Farrants Skip'pa'to'gan in which was no tinder. he then tried with his Gun but without succefs; In this attempt he froze his fingers, tho' he numbed them in changeing Mittens with and afsisting Thomson.. He says his feet were numb'd before he came to the Shore. He lay this night on the few sticks he had broken down But it is very remarkable that it was on the outer Drift not within the ledge of Woods. He made water here several times.
Thermometer -33."

Jan. 15
" Wednesday The Weather was more moderate than yesterday yet still severe but clear. In the morning he set out for the Factory but his extream weaknefs made him fall very often which filled his Mittens with snow and froze his fingers solid tho' the distance was only five miles and three quarters. It was seven OClock in the evening when he arrived and fired of his gun at the Gate to make himself heard.The extremity of his nose was also froze. He was perfectly sensible. One of the Dogs came home with him having staid by him all the While. The Other Dog was slighly wounded at a Gun on the Eastern Shore seven Miles from the Factory (Fourteens Rivers) and came to an Englishman's tent the twenty eighth of the same Month. - Poor Thomson declared the Day before his death that he could live much longer if he had but provisions to eat.
Thermometer -19."

"NB The Pacquet for Churchill went from the Factory only the Morning before them."



B.239/a/66

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