This is a virtually complete transcription of the York Factory Journal from 1785-86 by Alex Nicol

" A Journal of Occurrences and transactions done and happening at York Factory from September the 12th to August the 29th 1786 by Humphrey Marten Chief Factor for the Honourable Hudsons Bay Company"


Sept. 12 1785
" Monday Wind till 3 AM SW when it flew round to NNW with a Continual blaze of Lightning much loud Thunder and heavy rain till 6 AM when the Thunder Lightning and rain ceased but the gale continued. the Ship and Sloop in the hole the Captain on shore with one Sailor. Sent 6 Men to cut hay. the Remainder variously employed. trusted several Indians and gave them Brandy and Tobacco etc. Traded 120? Pounds dryed Venison"

Sept. 13
" Tuesday a very hard gale at WNW part of the Day Clear part Cloudy. at 4 AM Captain Richards in the Long boat fell? down to the Ship. sent many Indians a hunting also James Batt. ? the North River Indians went away. Bews and one man at work at the Forge. Guthrie helving hatchets. Armourers overhauling Guns. Cooper tightning Rundlets. six at the Hay Island. 4 at the Ship with the Long Boat. the rest at the Lime kiln and other necefsary duties"

Sept. 14
" Wednesday wind variable from SW to NNE with a variety of Weather. the Ship Sloop and Factory Long Boat sill? in the hole. the Long Boat having on board Garroch, Tennant and two other Persons besides Mr Colen. I was in hopes the Captain would not have detained her as I want to send men to the woods and to afsist in storing away the Cargo which now lies at the Mercy of wind and Rain, in the afternoon the two Indians I sent to Churchill on the 27 Instant returned with David Thompson. having not a Place to accomodate any of us as I could wish distrefses me much. and not having Tradesmen to work up the Timber I know not what the Consequences may be of a Number of Persons being huddled together like Prisoners in a ships hold. Fired a Gun and hoisted a Wiff for the Long boats return. the Tradesmen employed as Yesterday. ten men drawing the lime kiln which turns out very bad."

Sept. 15
" Thursday a light breeze at West Cloudy weather
all hands variously employed. at 3 PM the Severn Sloop got away as did the Ship about 4. Pray God send both to their desired ports in safety. Received 294 Pounds of Venison. James Batt brought 45 Fish ? ? lbs and? 3 Geese. gave the Indians eight beaver each for the Care they had taken of Thompson. more than the usual Number"

Sept. 16
" Friday Wind SW moderate weather. Guthrie, Bews and 12 Men taking up the Launch. Tennant and 5 men a stoning. Smith the Taylor mending the Colours the rest salting and Casking venison having received 1600 lbs and 30 Tongues with 40 lbs fat received also 40 lbs Fish"

Sept. 17
" Saturday a hard gale at SW cloudy weather with some Rain. ten men preparing to go to the woods to raft home firewood. 6 men came from the Hay Island for food. The Tradesmen employed in their several Trades, took up the ground work of the Launch, and served all Hands Provisions. Received 60 lbs of Fish"

Sept. 18
" Sunday Wind Northerly the weather moderate and Cloudy. Divine Service for the Day the hay makers returned to their Tent"

Sept. 19
" Monday Wind Northerly very raw cold weather. Froze a little last Night Sent Henry Garroch and nine men to raft home firewood Six men at the hay Island Wm Guthrie and five men laying the foundation of a receiving Shed 50? feet Long and 14 broad. Bews and the Armourer at work at the forge one tending the Cattle Batt hunting and Fishing"

Sept. 20
" Tuesday a hard gale at N by E with much Snow and Sleet very cold weather. Bews and the Cooper with Gilbert Duncan under the Surgeons Care the Remr? as yesterday a very high tide many Geese flew today. Received 200 lbs of venison"

Sept. 21
" Wednesday Wind N cold Cloudy weather
Guthrie and 4 men at work on the frame of the Intended Shed. 3 Men digging a hole in the Garden to bury Brandy in. Two Taylors at work for the men. 6 at the hay Island 10 at the woods. one not well the Smith at the Forge Armourer at work on a Gun the rest salting venison"

Sept. 22
" Thursday Wind N by W froze hard last Night the Day cold and cloudy. in the morning the men employed as yesterday afternoon. all hands stowing away eighteen pipes of Brandy 20 casks of Beef and Pork with sundry small kegs in a hole in the Garden dug for that purpose having no other place to stow it in."

Sept. 23
" Friday Dark heavy weather with a light breeze at North. a hard frost last Night and very high tides which do much Damage to the banks. Six men digging a hole to stow away more Brandy and the wooders brought 6 floats down"

Sept. 24
" Saturday Wind North Cloudy raw cold weather the wooders preparing to raft more firewood haymakers came for food and to make bread. sent nine men to the woods the rest digging another large hole to store Brandy and Provisions in and stowing it in the Warehouse"

Sept. 25
" Sunday Wind West moderate weather. Divine Service for the Day the haymakers returned to their Tent."

Sept. 26
" Monday Wind in the morning SW. Guthrie and one man hewing Timber the Armourer at work on a Gun. two at work on a boat the rest getting part of the wood up the bank untill noon when it rained hard the men were permitted to wash their linen and mend their Cloaths the high tides for several Days past hath done much damage to the banks which are indeed in a ruinous Condition"

Sept. 27
" Tuesday Wind variable SWterly mild weather the men employed as yesterday Morning"

Sept. 28
" Wednesday Wind ESE cloudy moist weather
Guthrie and one man altering a cabin for Mr Colen. the Smith and one man making hogsties. Armourer stocking a Gun. one Taylor at work for the men the rest removing goods out of the Marque into the Log Tent. the wooders brought 3 floats home which finishes that Job. all the Indian Hunters came in the Geese being gone and no Deer Stirring. Mefs Ballanden and Robinson caught 14 lbs of Fish"

Sept. 29
" Thursday Wind SSE cloudy wet weather. All hands with 20 Indians getting the firewood and some Timber up the Bank"

Sept. 30
" Friday a very light Breeze at SW mild cloudy
five men a fishing no luck. 5 men stoning. 5 men making an Engine to drive piles. 4 men cutting and pointing Stakes which are to be drove before the part of the bank that is damaged by the breaking up of the River and the late high tides, 6 men at the hay Island. J Batt brought 12 lbs of Fish and 2 Geese, Isbester at work for the men. three writing two inspecting the men, Guthrie and one hewing Timber. Bews making broad Ice Chizzels, Armourer stocking a Gun Cooper trimming Casks. trusted several homeguard Indians who are going to their winter Quarters and paid them for the Goose Hunt the Geese being nearly all gone. the Geese killed since the 20th of August are 1048. Ducks 746. out of which number 1047 Geese and 556 Ducks hath been killed since Septmber the first, traded 200 lbs of Venison and 30 lbs of Fat most part of the Venison is dryed and beat or what is called Thuhigan"

Oct. 1 1785
" Saturday Wind NNE cloudy dull weather not cold but very damp. the men employed much the same as yesterday. trusted the Remainder of this River home guard and gave them a treat of Brandy Tobacco Bread Prunes"

Oct. 2
" Sunday Light Airs variable mildish weather a little Snow. Divine Service for the Day. 15 families of home Indians went for their winter Quarters three Canoes brought 520 lbs of Venison"

Oct. 3
" Monday Wind variable from SW to NW by W cloudy moist heavy weather. Armourer stocking a Gun. Guthrie and one hewing Timber Bews making broad Ice Chifsels the Cooper salting venison. Mr Colen and 4 men finishing the Pile Driver. Mr Ballanden and the Surgeon with 11 Men hauling the Seine got 40 lbs of Fish. 5 men with the Long Boat stoning. two out a hunting two writing Taylor at work for the men the rest Cooking and tending the Cattle and Hogs"

Oct. 4
" Tuesday Wind NEterly the Sun apperar'd a little about noon the rest of the Day moist and Cloudy. Mr Ballenden the Surgeon with 7 men caught with the Seine 30 lbs of Fish. The Pile Driver being finished Mr Colen and 3 Men are Driving of Piles. 7 Men are Stoning three are hewing of Timber Armourer is stocking a Gun Bews is mending hatchets Broad Axes etc. two are grinding tradesmens Tools. Isbester the Taylor at work for the men. two writing. two of the Canoes that brought venison the 2nd Instant paid a trifling Debt and traded a few Deer Skins the other Canoe went off directly having been trusted Yesterday"

Oct. 5
" Wednesday Wind variable NWterly with frequent showers of Snow the weather not cold. Sent by two men orders to the haymakers to pack the half dryed Grafs in Bundles to be got home as soon as pofsible. four men hewing Timber the rest as Yesterday except one with the Horse getting mould into the Yard."

Oct. 6
" Thursday a very hard gale of wind at NNW with much Sleet and Snow and a prodigious high tide, it being six feet higher than usual. Armourer cleaning Guns Bews Jobbing Guthrie and 3 men hewing Timber. Mr Colen and 7 men when the weather would permit Driving Piles to secure the banks much of which is carryed away by the last high tide. The Cooper trimming Casks Taylor at work for the men the rest rest variously employed. George Gun and Gilbert Duncan under the Surgeons Care."

Oct. 7
" Friday the wind Westerly the weather Cloudy with Snow. Sent 10 men for hay the rest as yesterday. two Canoes of Home Indians came with a few Deer Skins and to trade 40 lbs of Venison dryed 30 lbs of Fat and to take debt"

Oct. 8
" Saturday Wind variable from North to East with Snow. Sent the men for hay and getting things ready for six men to go a hunting at the french and ten Shilling Creeks also 12 men to go to the woods as soon as we have got the hay home. the Armourer mending Indian Guns"

Oct. 9
" Sunday Wind Northerly cloudy weather. Sent the Boat for hay. my self very bad with a nervous head-ach. the Indians of Friday went away and an old Indian with his Wife and 2 Children came to stay at the house being almost blind. Gun and Duncan still under the Surgeons Care"

Oct. 10
"Monday Wind variable from E by N to West and back to SW the sky at times overcast some snow on the Ground the weather moderate. Wm Guthrie and 3 men at work on the frame of the intended store house. Mr Colen with 3 hands driving Piles to secure the bank. Sent ten men to bring home more hay. two at the hay island. the rest variously employed. It ever gives me concern to complain to your Honours of the misbehaviour of your Servants, but, there is a time when Silence is criminal and I think that time is now arrived by the Insolent and undutiful Behaviour of Mr. ALFRED ROBINSON who against repeated admonitions is too frequently giving the Indians Brandy and trading Curiousitys as he calls them with the Indians, when I Declared my Intention to put a stop to all private Trading, even to the least Article, For fear it might lead to a greater, he swore by God that if I hindered him from keeping a woman Not an Indian should come into my Room he said he did not like such tyrannical doings that it gave me pleasure to hear informations against him and that what Captain Christopher told him he finds too true viz. that I am a Tyrannical over bearing man. Indeed by the whole tenor of his behaviour I believe he wants to provoke me to strike him. he hath generally refused to acquaint me of what persons were rendered incapable of duty by sicknefs etc. and this morning made a false report of George Gun and Gilbert Duncan being unfit for duty when soon after I found the latter a Sled making and the former petitioned to go to the Woods; to day he hath used the most irritating and abusive words before the lowest of your Honors Servants which must be destructive to all proper Subordination and tho desired in the most ardent manner by Mefs Ballenden and Colen to ask pardon who told him they thought him greatly to blame, he still persisted at the Table to call me an overbearing man that he would have his hearing having as many Friends at the board as I have, On which as I have more than once before done I call'd him an Insolent Morose Ignorant puppy and strictly charged him to beware of giving the Indians Brandy or having any dealing with them for any thing he might think proper to call Curiousitys. his Answer to this was in a high strain of Defiance and we parted with mutual Anger and with great threats to lay the affair before your Honours."

Oct. 11
" Tuesday Wind in the morning variable with some Sunshine at Noon blew fresh at SW with Snow and Rain at 3 PM thick Snow wind North. Sent 10 men for hay the rest as yesterday. Sent the old Indian man to cut Snow shoe frames The Indian women cutting Shagganappe"

Oct. 12
" Wednesday A Storm of Wind at N by W with a very great drift of Snow. All hands variously employed in doors blows two hard to get the Boats in proper Security"

Oct. 13
" Thursday All last Night a storm of wind at NW. In the morning the River appear'd full of Ice. the Long Boat and the Yawl were drove from their moorings about a Mile and a half to the ENE ward and appear'd to be aground. Sent the Boat your Honours formerly favour'd Mr Jacobs with and 9 hands to try to get at the Yawl? but the wind blowing hard at North West tho they got to the Cutter and man'd her. they were driven below the Point of Marsh in an Easterly Direction from that place On which I sent Mr Ballenden with Brandy Biscuits and Cheese with 6 hands in the Staving? Boat to give them every afsistance in my Power. I am sorry to say two men are left at the hay island and by their own faults without any Provisions. hired an Indian and sent two English with him to try to releive them with proper necefsarys they went in an old wooden canoe. at 4 O'Clock sent all hands with a Tracking Line to afsist in getting the Long Boat etc. to the House. not quite so much wind as in the morning. At 6 PM Mr Ballenden came up having left the Long Boat at the old battery. he brings the Melancholy news that the Cutter in which Henry Garroch John Mellam Armourer with Robert Sinclair and John Linklater is no where to be seen, on which I ordered three great Guns to be fired directly and every fifteen Minutes during the whole night as a Direction to them should they be living where to find the House. during this sad night the Surgeon never offered me the least Afsistance but treated me with sullen Contem[pt]"

Oct. 14
" Friday Most part of last night the Wind was West varying a point each way? the weather clearish and much more mild. The Guns were regularly fired by either Mefs Ballanden or Colen, the Surgeon never offering the least Afsistance or indeed shewing the least Uneasinefs on the Melancholy occaision. At Day break I ordered several Men to be sent round the Point of Marsh with Beaver Coats Warm Bumboo Bread Cheese Hatchets and Fire Tackle to give every afsistance to the Unfortunate Men should they be found existing on this Side. I also sent two men up the River to see what was become of the two English and Indian I sent with Food to the two men left in distrefs at the hay Island. they all returned with the heart breaking Information that they had seen nothing of them. At 9 AM I saw the men left at the hay Island walking upwards on it. I also saw smoke on the South Shore a little above it which I hoped was made by the men I sent to their Relief but at 12 OClock the three returned with an Account that they found it impofsible to crofs the River. that they had seen the two men endeavouring to crofs it but as the River was not pafsable the men sent from hence fired 5 Guns and haild them with a speaking Trumpet by which they informed them the River was not pafsable but that Afsistance would be given them the first opportunity. Wm Guthrie and 2 Men at work on the Frame of the Intended Shed. Bews mending Hatchets. the Cooper and Smith the Taylor not well. Isbester and Caithnefs at work for the men the rest variously employed. shall send every afsistance to the men tomorrow."

Oct. 15
" Saturday Wind Variable NWerly the weather mostly cloudy but not very cold. much Ice driving in the River. this Morning at 7 AM I saw several men on the South Shore about 4 Miles from the House which gave a gleam of Hope that the four men supposed to be lost had got on shore on that side. Sent Mr John Ballenden James Batt Wm Rich and one Indian with 2 Dogs and Provisions with other necefsaries to give them every pofsible Afsistance. At 1/2 past Eleven Henry Garroch John Mellam Nicholas Spence John Linklater Robert Sinclair and Thomas Hay arrived safe. they found the Canoe with food and a little Brandy but did not see Mr Ballenden. On which I ordered three guns to be fired to give him notice of this happy event. soon after he with the men sent with him returned. Truth obliges me to say that Mefs Ballenden and Colen shewed hearts fraught with Humanity on this trying occaision but the Surgeon tho admonished by them both refused to offer his Service saying what good can I do. Henry Garroch informs me they were forced by a Ledge of Ice as far down as the lower beacon nine miles from the house, that they then pulled in for the Eastern shore, reached opposite to the River fourteens, there left the boat, and had three miles to travel over rough and Broken Ice which sometimes broke in with them before they reached a Place proper to make a fire, that they heard our guns distinctly that the next morning they came and made a Smoke abreast of the House which was not seen by us, they went to the Hay tent where they slept. set out in the morning found refreshment in the Canoe and happily arrived at the House. The gun fired during the night was a long six Pounder yet was not heard by the men I sent with the Canoe or those at the hay island it blowing so hard at WNW paid the Indian that went over with our men in the Canoe"

Oct. 16
" Sunday Light Airs Northerly cloudy mild weather. observing the Long boat to be afloat and somewhat? like a boat at the Point of Marsh. Sent Mr Colen with several hands to secure the one and bring up the other. the former proved a deception the latter secured but not brought up"

Oct. 17
" Monday Wind Westerly moderate Pleasant weather the Armourer stocking a gun Cooper drawing of beer for winter use. Carpenter and six men at work on the frameing of the Intended Shed. Smith and one man making Traping hatchets. 6 Men stacking hay one looking after the Long boat three Taylors at work for the men. the Cooks and Cowkeeper as usual two writing the rest variously employed. Myself and two Indians set several Rabbet Snares. Am obliged to part mefses with the Surgeon as I cannot eat a meal in pleasure with him"

Oct. 18
" Tuesday Wind West fine mild weather. Cooper and one planing Staves for Sleds. three men at taylor's work six stacking hay the rest as Yesterday. 14 Rabbets 1 partridge and 1 Marten my snares."

Oct. 19
" Wednesday At 6 AM the Wind SW at 8 it blew fresh at NE raw cold at noon. sent Henry Garroch 8 Miles up the River to examine it as to crofsing it he says it is full of Driving Ice far above the Place where he crofsed it on the 15th Instant. All the tradesmen with their Afsistants employed as on Monday last the rest getting Timber to the Saw pit and mould to the foundation of the intended Shed. 6 Rabbets and two partridges today"

Oct. 20
" Thursday Wind NWterly moderate weather The Armourer stocking a Gun. Cooper and one planing staves for sleds The Carpenter and 6 men at work on the frame of the intended Shed. Smith and one man making traping hatchets four hunting 3 Taylors at work for the men. The two Cooks and Cowkeeper as usual the rest getting Timber to the Sawpit. 17 Rabbets to'day. Rushland and Sebbeston not well. sent an Indian with Mr Colen to shew him the traping Ground and the back of the Island"

Oct. 21
" Friday Wind East moderate weather all hands employed as Yesterday 10 Rabbets too day 9 Indians are in for relief being old lame and Orphans"

Oct. 22
" Saturday Wind NW moderate weather No alterations in the mens employ Received from the Surgeon 3 Rabbets from Mr Colen 4 Rabbets and 1 Marten and 1 Partridge Myself 12 Rabbets Henry Garroch 6 Partridges and from the Indian hunters 17 Partridges. Killed 536 lbs of Fine Pork. As to the Beef hope to raise a good stock before I kill any except compel'd for want of hay"

Oct. 23
" Sunday Wind variable Northerly raw cold weather with some snow. Divine Service for the day Received from Mr Colen two Rabbets from Mr Robinson 2 Rabbets and 1 Marten and from my Snares 13 Rabbets. much Ice drove out of the River"

Oct. 24
" Monday All last night the wind exceeding variable to day NW by W and sharp and Clear. The Armourer stocking a Gun. Cooper and two making Sleds Carpenter and 6 men at work on the frame of the new intended shed. the Smith and one man mending Steel Traps three Taylors at work for the men four a hunting the Cooks and Cowkeeper as usual. sent two men up the River to see if it be pofsible to get acrofs it returned and reported it to be impofsible. the rest variously employed. Received two Rabbets from the Surgeon one myself Rushland and Sebbeston still ailing one Marten Mr Colen"

Oct. 25
" Tuesday Clear sharp fine weather Wind Southerly the men employed much the same as yesterday. Received 2 Rabbets myself one the Surgeon one Marten and a Rabbet from Mr Colen also 30 Partridges from various hunters English and Indian sent 4 Indians to procure snow shoe frames"

Oct. 26
" Wednesday Light Airs SEterly mild fine weather
At nine AM had a boat launched and set Mr John Ballanden Robert Tennant David Thompson and an Indian lad over to hunt and fish at the French Creek the boat returned the rest employed as on Monday last. in the afternoon sent a boat with five men to set James Batt Wm Rich Wm Corrigal and an Indian Boy over to ten shilling Creek to fish and hunt. gave all the hunters a Weeks food from Saturday near? the 29th Instant. Received from the Surgeon 3 Rabbets and from Mr Colen 1 Rabbet and one Marten with 7 Partridges from hunters. cannot get the wooders away for want of small sleds. this channel open as high as the mile sand"

Oct. 27
" Thursday Light Airs variable from SSE to NNE moderate weather. Armourer stocking a gun Cooper and 5 men making sleds Carpenter and 6 men at work on the frame of the intended shed. three Taylors at work for the men the Cooks and Cowkeeper as usual One Cyphering six abroad a hunting Mefs Colen and Robinson with my Servant a hunting. the Smith and one making falling hatchets one under the Surgeons Care the rest bringing wood into the yard and Clearing the Plantation of Chips and Rubbish. Received 4 Rabbets from Mr Colen two from Mr Robinson and two myself also 30 Partridges"

Oct. 28
" Friday Wind Nerly cloudy at times Sent Henry Garroch up the River to see if it be pofsible to get to the wooding island he thinks they may venture on Monday next, the rest of the men employed as yesterday Received 3 Rabbets from the Surgeon one and a Marten myself and one Marten Mr Colen 10 Partridges other hunters"

Oct. 29
" Saturday Some snow last night and too day wind NNW 12 men receiving 14 Days Provisions to go to the woods. the rest of the rest of the men receiving 7 Days food. All the tradesmen with their Afsistants employed as yesterday 7 Partridges to day"

Oct. 30
" Sunday Wind North but very little of it mild weather Divine Service for the Day one Marten and a Quequehatch Mr. Colen"

Oct. 31
" Monday Light Airs at N by W thick moist weather very clammy under foot which hinders the wooders from going away. this channel clear from a mile above the House. to Sea much ice on both shores and the Flats. Armourer cleaning a gun Cooper and three men making Sleds Carpenter and Six men at work on the framing of the intended Shed three Taylors at work for the men. Cooks and Cowkeeper as usual two hunting the rest cutting firewood several Ducks seen in the Channel to day and one Duck two Rabbets and one Marten from Mr Colen with 3 Rabbets Mr Robinson nine Partridges"

Nov. 1 1785
" Tuesday Wind N by W but very little of it mild thawing weather. All hands employed as Yesterday took up all my Snares today 2 Rabbets from them"

Nov. 2
" Wednesday Wind variable from SW back to ENE very warm weather for the time of year Wm Guthrie and 6 men at work on and for the frameing of the intended Shed. Cooper and 4 men making Sleds Smith and one man Jobbing three Taylors at work for the men Cooks and Cowkeeper as usual Armourer cleaning hunting Guns 6 abroad hunting two hunting at the Factory the rest Cutting firewood James Batt Wm Rich and an Indian lad brought 79 Partridges 8 Rabbets one Marten and 16 lbs of Fish. Received from Mr Colen 2 Rabbets and Mr Robinson 2 Rabbets with one Partridge"

Nov. 3
" Thursday Light Airs variable from SW back to NNW warm close weather Sent Henry Garroch and 11 men to the woods to procure Timber and firewood the hunters returned to their tents the rest of the men employed as Yesterday Myself set several snares for Rabbets and got 1 Marten the Surgeon 1 Partridge and Mr Colen 3 Martens and 2 Rabbets"

Nov. 4
" Friday a fresh Gale at NNW the weather warm and cloudy some snow last night. Wm Guthrie and five men at work on the frame of the intended Shed. Wm Bews and one man at the forge. John Mellam cleaning hunting Guns. James Grimbester blocking staves for inland Rundlets Smith and Isbester at work for trade and the men. three at home Hunting. Cooks and Cowkeeper as usual. twelve at the woods six at the hunting tents. 3 Partridges to day a man came from tenshilling Creek with 61 lbs of Fish."

Nov.,5
" Saturday A hard gale all last night at NW by N dark heavy weather too day this channel at low water very clear of Ice all hands till noon employed as Yesterday then they received food for 7 Days. VIZ. the 21 Men at the Factory. the man returned to tenshilling Creek. at Night a Bonfire as usual"

Nov. 6
" Sunday Light Airs variable allmost all round the Compafs the weather mild tho' variable from Cloudy to Sunshine"

Nov. 7
" Monday wind variable from E by S back to N by W the weather part Clear part Cloudy and mild. Armourer jobbing The Cooper blocking staves for inland Rundlets. Guthrie and 5 men at work on the frameing of the new shed. Bews at the forge two Taylors at work for trade and the men two hunting at home six hunting abroad 12 at the woods Cook and Cowkeeper as usual the rest cutting firewood sent a Canoe with two Indians to the french Creek to see how they go on there. Received one Rabbet from the Surgeon and 4 my snares also 12 Partridges"

Nov. 8
" Tuesday Wind SW with thick rime at times the men employed much the same as yesterday. the Indians I sent Yesterday to the french Creek returned with 20 Rabbets and 80 fish weight 80 Pounds one Rabbet my snares and ten Partridges by the Gun"

Nov. 9
" Wednesday Wind North a very thick rime from Sea roak? the Armourer Cooper Carpenter Smith and four men setting up the posts Plates? etc of the intended shed. two men sawing for ditto Taylors at work for the men and trade the rest variously employed Received from Mr Colen two Foxes two Martens and 1 Rabbet and from my snares four Rabbets also 25 Partridges"

Nov. 10
" Thursday Light Airs at North with a thick rime from Sea roak mild weather. Armourer mending an Indian kettle Bews making knitting needles for the Indians to knitt snow shoes with. Guthrie and 5 men at work on the shed two men sawing rafters the Cooper blocking staves for inland Rundlets Cook and Cowkeeper as usual two Brewing the two taylors at work for trade and the men two Hunting 14 Partridges from them the rest variously employed"

Nov. 11
" Friday Wind and weather much the same as Yesterday the men employed the same 13 Partridges from hunters one Rabbet Mr Colen 2 myself"

Nov. 12
" Saturday Wind W by S cold weather and at times foggy Wm Guthrie John Linklater Edward Brown Robert Sinclair John Ballanden Junior and Wm Groundwater at the pitsaw cutting Rafters Girders etc the rest till noon when they received Provisions as Yesterday. All the wooders came for food James Batt and Wm Rich brought 112 lbs of fish and 105 Partridges Robert Tennant brought 60 lbs of fish and 20 Rabbets Received from the Surgeon 6 Partridges"

Nov. 13
" Sunday Wind N by E sharpish close weather
Divine Service to day James Batt and Wm Rich returned to there Tent at tenshilling Creek"

Nov. 14
" Monday Blew fresh at East cloudy cold weather
Armourer and Bews Jobbing Guthrie and 5 men at the Pitsaw Cooper blocking staves for inland Rundlets two taylors at work for trade and the men three cleaning the Plantation three hunting the Cook and Cowkeeper as usual 12 men returned to the woods as did Robert Tennant to his Tent at the french Creek James Batt sent 8 Rabbets 20 Partridges and 70 lbs of fish 16 Partridges from the Surgeon and one Rabbet one Partridge and one Marten Mr Colen"

Nov. 15
" Tuesday a fresh wind at North the men employed as Yesterday two Rabbets one Partridge and one Marten myself one Partridge the Surgeon and ten from an Indian"

Nov. 16
" Wednesday Light airs at North with thick heavy weather from sea roak? two men brewing the rest employed as on Monday last. much Ice driving in this Channel the South Channel quite fast. Received 7 pairs of Snow shoes which with deerskins frames and knitting cost 36 Beaver 34 Partridges to'day"

Nov. 17
" Thursday Wind variable from N by E to WNW the weather mostly cloudy with some snow Armourer Jobbing Cooper blocking staves for inland Rundlets Guthrie Robert Sinclair Linklater Groundwater Ballanden and Edward Brown at the pitsaw for weather boarding two taylors at work for the men and trade Cook and Cowkeeper as usual the rest cutting firewood Received 5 Partridges"

Nov. 18
" Friday Wind SW thick heavy weather last night Sharp the men as yesterday ten Partridges to'day"

Nov. 19
" Saturday Wind NW sharp weather at times Clear. this channel very full of Ice. Armourer stocking a gun Bews making Steels the rest employed as on Thursday last James Batt and William Rich brought 100 Partridges and 70 lbs of fish"

Nov. 20
" Sunday Wind SW by S fine sharp weather myself bad with the head ach and sore eyes one Rabbet my Snares"

Nov. 21
" Monday Variable Airs to the SEward dark heavy weather some snow not cold. the hunters went away Armourer stocking a gun Bews mending steel traps Guthrie and 5 men sawing weather boards Cooper Jobbing two taylors at work for trade Cook and Cowkeeper as usual the rest cutting firewood one Marten from Mr Colen fitted out 5 Indians to go for more snow shoe frames"

Nov. 22
" Tuesday Wind N thick heavy weather untill noon when it cleared a little then very cold. the men as Yesterday. Robert Tennant and David Thompson came from Mr Ballanden with 15 Rabbets 60 lbs of Fish and 80 Partridges with 2 Red and one good ??? Fox - received two martens from Mr Colen five Indians went away to get shoe frames 2 Partridges at home"

Nov. 23
" Wednesday Wind North with exceeding sharp weather with a low Drift the channel set fast. the Ink now freezes in my pen tho' only 3 feet from a good fire. Robert Tennant and Thompson returned to their Tent two Martens from Mr Colen"

Nov. 24
" Thursday Wind NW sharp clear fine weather
the Armourer stocking a Gun Cooper blocking staves Guthrie and 5 men at the Pit saw Bews mending steel traps two Taylors at work for trade and the men Cook and Cowkeeper as usual the rest cutting firewood 5 Partridges to'day"

Nov. 25
" Friday wind SW very sharp weather five men cutting watering and victualling holes and putting food into the latter. the rest as yesterday 33 Partridges to'day Henry Garroch came from the woods with Peter Sebbeston who is bad with the bloody flux. John Linklater bad with a pain in his bowels myself very bad with the head ach."

Nov. 26
" Saturday Light Airs at SW dark heavy weather
Wm Rich and Wm Corrigal came from tenshilling Creek with 100 lbs of fish and 100 Partridges All the wooders came home for food the men employed much the same as yesterday Received 36 Partridges at home of which 11 the Doctor 9 my Servant and the rest from Indians."

Nov. 27
" Sunday Light Airs at E to N thick snowing weather not cold myself very ill I believe with the Gout in my head. the hunters returned to their Tent."

Nov. 28
" Monday Wind West till 10 AM then NE the weather thick at times and cold. Sent Henry Garroch and 9 men to beat a path and set beacons acrofs the river. the Armourer stocking a Gun Cooper blocking staves Guthrie Ballanden Edward Brown and Groundwater at the Pitsaw. Linklater Wood and Sebbeston under the Surgeons care Sinclair making a door to the Mens Staircase two taylors at work for trade Cook and Cowkeeper as usual six abroad hunting, the rest cutting firewood"

Nov. 29
" Tuesday Light Airs at North till 10 AM when it blew south and thick. Henry Garroch and ten men sett off for the woods but Gilbert Duncan soon returned not being able to proceed on account of a shortnefs of Breath occaisioned by extreme fatnefs. This man though frequently admonished to abstain from fat Meats will gorge himself on the fatest and even cheat his Mefsmates to get it. he is a lazy Grumbling fellow. the Armourer jobbing Cooper blocking staves for inland Rundlets Guthrie Robert Sinclair and four others at the Pit saw Smith Jobbing Taylors at work for trade and the men Cook and Cowkeeper as usual the rest hunting and Cutting of Firewood 41 Partridges to'day Mr Ballanden sent 120 Partridges ten Rabbets 33 lbs of fish and ten foxes"

Nov. 30
" Wednesday Wind in the Morning W by S clearish moderate weather in the afternoon wind N by E with a sharp rime from sea roak. Wood Linklater and Sebbeston under the Surgeons Care the rest as Yesterday. David Thompson brought from Mr Ballanden 35 lbs of Venison killed at home 44 Partridges"

Dec. 1 1785
" Thursday Wind NNW very sharp weather the men employed as on tuesday last"

Dec. 2
" Friday Wind W by S very rigid weather
Gilbert Duncan of no manner of service. no alteration in the mens employ. Received 1 Partridge 1 Wolf from Mr Colen and one Fox myself"

Dec. 3
" Saturday Wind Southerly thick snowing weather James Batt brought 100 Partridges and 100 lbs of Fish Mr Ballanden sent 150 Partridges Received at home 36 Partridges the men still employed as tuesday last"

Dec. 4
" Sunday Light Airs from South to West moderate weather chiefly cloudy. the Hunters returned to their Tents. myself far from well a cruel eradic Gout continually attacking one part or the other but chiefly my head and Stomach. Gilbert Duncan and John Wood under the Surgeons Care"

Dec. 5
" Monday Dark thick weather an easy gale at N by W. Armourer stocking a Gun Cooper blocking Rundlets Guthrie and 5 men sawing plank and feather edged boards. Bews Jobbing two taylors at work for trade Robert Sinclair making a large Stretcher for the Wolf. Cook and Cowkeeper as usual Duncan and Wood under the Surgeons Care Mefs Colen and Robinson hunting the rest cutting firewood 17 Partridges to'day"

Dec. 6
" Tuesday Wind WNW sharp thick weather all hands employed much the same as Yesterday 17 Partridges to'day"

Dec. 7
" Wednesday Wind SSW exceeding sharp weather
Robert Sinclair planing boards the rest as on Monday last Received 10 Partridges to'day"

Dec. 8
" Thursday Light Airs at North at noon saw the Sun the rest of the Day cloudy and cold. Armourer stocking a gun Cooper blocking staves for Inland Rundlets Guthrie and 5 men at the Pitsaw Robert Sinclair planing boards Bews Jobbing one making a Partridge nett two Taylors at work for the men and trade Cook and Cowkeeper as usual John Wood lame Duncan of no service Mr Colen and my Servant hunting as are three Indians. Received 39 Partridges from them Six English and two Indian lads at the hunting tents and ten men at the woods"

Dec. 9
" Friday Wind SW not very cold weather out of doors but intensely so in doors the men employed as Yesterday Received 44 Partridges"

Dec. 10
" Saturday wind North very thick weather and Intense cold both within and without. Part of the men opening and clearing the watering and victualling holes. the rest till noon employed as on Thursday last. James Batt and two of his Tentmates brought 100 netted Partridges 100 ditto by the Gun and 74 lbs of fish. Henry Garroch and Wm Allen came from the woods for Instructions in regard to coming home against the Christmas Holydays. Robert Tennant brought from Mr Ballanden 200 Partridges and one Fox. Sent an Indian to the back of the island to hunt Partridges and to set some Rabbet snares. Mr Colen having seen many of the former and the tracts of some of the latter on thursday last. As Gilbert Duncan is of no manner of use to the Factory I have this day by the Surgeons advice put him on a regimen in respect to food and struct him of the Pay list. he would eat and Sleep himself to Death. myself very bad with the Gout in my head and Stomach"

Dec. 11
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday the Hunters went away the Indians came from the back of the island for a net to try to kill them that way he got one and returned directly"

Dec. 12
" Monday Wind NWerly exceeding cold weather the Armourer and Smith Jobbing the Cooper blocking staves for inland Rundlets Guthrie and five men at the Pitsaw two taylors at work for the men Cook and Cowkeeper as usual. three under the Surgeons Care the rest cutting firewood and other necefsary Jobbs the wooders went away Received 13 Partridges from the Surgeon"

Dec. 13
" Tuesday Wind Southerly sharp close weather Robert Sinclair helving hatchets for the wooders the rest as Yesterday the Gout in my head and stomach not quite so severe as Yesterday"

Dec. 14
" Wednesday a hard gale at East a great drift and exceeding thick cold weather too cold and too bad to work without doors consequently the men variously employed within"

Dec. 15
" Thursday Wind North dark thick weather not so cold as yesterday Armourer Jobbing Cooper blocking staves Guthrie and 5 men at the Pitsaw Bews making Rivets? the two taylors at work for the men. Cook and Cowkeeper as usual. Duncan of no use Peter Brown under the Surgeons Care the rest cutting firewood 4 Partridges to'day"

Dec. 16
" Friday Wind N by E and sharp clear at times all hands as Yesterday Received 11 Partridges"

Dec. 17
" Saturday Wind West clear fine weather
Wm Rich and Wm Corrigal from Batts tent with 200 Partridges 100 of which netted as did David Thompson from Mr Ballenden's with 200 all by the gun also a Coloured fox from the later and a blue one the former. Henry Garroch and nine men came from the woods to stay at the factory till after Christmas as many necefsary Jobbs are requisite to be done before that cheerful season. Three families of home Indians in all 17 Persons came to the factory they brought 59 Marins 17 Whole Beaver 19 half Beaver 3 Deer Skins 1 Quequehatch 1 Fox and two Otters"

Dec. 18
" Sunday Fine Clear weather wind NW the Hunters returned to their Tents"

Dec. 19
" Monday Wind SW clear sharp weather Six men at the Pitsaw Cooper blocking rundlets Taylor at work for the men Bews Jobbing the rest cutting firewood and other necefsary Jobs. an Indian brought in 121 Partridges myself Ill of the gout Duncan of no use 3 Partridges the Surgeon"

Dec. 20
" Tuesday Wind southerly clear sharp fine weather the men employed as Yesterday sent 3 Indians to the marsh to try to net Partridges returned no luck. the Indians of Yesterday returned to his Tent Mr Colen brought one Martin myself in great pain with the Gout. Duncan of no use"

Dec. 21
" Wednesday Wind till night SW and Clear sharp weather at night the wind NW blew fresh with some snow. All hands employed as on Monday last. the Indians went to the Marsh and got 30 Partridges by the net and 10 by the gun. the Partridges are plenty but wild. 9 Partridges by the gun from the Surgeon"

Dec. 22
" Thursday Blowed hard all last night at NW and Intense cold Light airs to day at W by S thickish cold weather. All hands still employed the same"

Dec. 23
" Friday Wind Westerly clear sharp weather no alteration in the mens employ. Mr John Ballanden with his Tentmates came home they have in all 400 Partridges 47 Rabbets 52 Martins 3 Foxes 91 lbs of fish as did James Batt and his Tentmates with 260? Partridges and an Indian with 40 Partridges and 3 Rabbets. blefsed be God the year hitherto hath turned out plentifull. a great Blefsing when we have so many mouths to feed and English Provisions comes so dear"

Dec. 24
" Saturday Wind and Weather the same as yesterday all hands employed in cleaning Cabbins etc."

Dec. 25
" Sunday Wind NW thick sharp weather. I humbly wish your honors the Compliments of the Season. I am sorry to inform your Honors that the Extreme Pains I am in with the Gout prevents and hath prevented our having Divine Service now and for some time past"

Dec. 26
" Monday Wind SW but little of it the weather thickly? a low drift and extreme severe the Men enjoying themselves in the usual way"

Dec. 27
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as yesterday the Sun frequently visible"

Dec. 28
" Wednesday Wind SW the weather so sharp the Indians refused to go a hunting yet Mr Ballanden went to his guns Received 2 White and one Coloured Fox Mr Ballanden one Red fox my traps"

Dec. 29
" Thursday Wind West the weather somewhat milder Received 50 Partridges from the Indians. Altho Mr Colen hath a very bad middle Finger of his Right hand he is attentive to everything that can forward your honors interest or give me pleasure"

Dec. 30
" Friday Thick heavy weather the Wind at W by N and not very sharp"

Dec. 31
" Saturday Wind W by S sometimes a point or two more Southerly moderate weather. part of the men cutting firewood part receiving Provisions. this cruel eratic Gout will not give me a moments Ease and the Surgeon is afraid to meddle with me. my Appetite is gone. Sleep forsakes me yet at times I am as Cheerful and as Gay as the lively human Colen or the well behaved Ballanden"

Jan. 1 1786
" Monday All last Night a light falling of snow part of the Morning Clear the rest of the Day rimy very mild weather. this being a beginning of a new year permit an old Servant honourable Gentlemen as it may be the last Time in all probability he will have a similar opportunity to addrefs you in terms that flow from the dictates of an honest heart and sincere Gratitude tho' not wrote by the pen of Elegance. May the Year 1786 Gentlemen prove a year productive of the greatest Felicity to each Member of the Honourable board and may your Servant rejoice in your prosperity may the Hudson bay house be once more filled with Hesperian Fruit may your old Servant live to see it and then I will say with good old Simon Lord let thy Servant depart in peace etc"

Jan. 2
" Monday Wind WSW mild weather the men at various pleasureable exercises. the great Sled was fitted out for hay which the men will go for tomorrow"

Jan. 3
" Tuesday A Variety of Weather today part being clear part thick but all mild. Sent 25? men for hay returned with a middling load. the rest of the men variously employed. Received 60 Partidges"

Jan. 4
" Wednesday Wind NE and mild sent all hands for hay brought a load and stowed it away"

Jan. 5
" Thursday Wind North blew fresh with some snow till 9 AM then cloudy and not cold the men as Yesterday"

Jan. 6
" Friday Light Airs at North thick snow from Sea roak and warm. Sent the men again for hay they brought all and stowed it away. gave the rest of the day to wash and mend their cloaths. Robert Tennant not well. myself somewhat freeer of Pain. Duncan of no use Mr Colens finger still very bad."

Jan. 7
" Saturday Wind NNE thick drifting weather and cold 12 men Preparing for the woods. Six with the 2 Indian lads to go to the hunting Tents. Six Sawyers getting their tools in order. Bews and the Cooper Jobbing. the rest cutting firewood 'till noon when all hands Received Provisions. Mr Ballanden preparing to go Churchill with three Indians for trading goods"

Jan. 8
" Sunday Wind variable the weather sometimes Clear others thick or Cloudy Divine Service for the Day"

Jan. 9
" Monday Clear fine weather most part of this day and mild for the time of year. Sent 12 men to the woods. Six and two Indian lads to the Hunting tents. the Armourer is one of the Hunters. Six men sawing weather boards. Bews Jobbing Guthrie making a skreen. Cooper blocking Rundlets Isbester and Smith at work for the Men. Cooks and Cowkeeper besides their common duties at work in cutting firewood Duncan of no use Mr Robinson and my Servant hunting. only 2 Partridges from them the later froze his great toe of his left foot. three writing a little myself took a small ride on the Plantation"

Jan. 10
" Tuesday Wind NNW thick cold weather all hands except the hunters as yesterday. Sent 4 Indian men a hunting. Received 40 Partridges"

Jan. 11
" Wednesday Wind West very sharp weather. made up the Packet for Churchill one Taylor at work for an Indian Boy the rest as on Monday last. Received 10 Partridges to day. Wm Sinclair bad with a froze toe myself a little Better yet do what I can or live abstemtiously or live liberal the Gout will not settle ten hours in any particular part or parts but flies from foot to hand to Stomach to the Head Back ancles arms Elbows etc. Indeed the weather and House are so miserable cold that much Stronger Constitutions than mine are shaken by it"

Jan. 12
" Thursday Wind WNW somewhat variable Northly a low drift and intense Cold. at 1/2 past 10 AM Mr John Ballenden and three Indians set of with letters for Churchill and to bring back trading Goods and Stores if they can be spared. one taylor at work for Mr Colen the other for my Servant. the rest of the Men employed still the same. I am sorry to find Mr Colens finger is in a bad way it having been opened and found deeply surrounded with fungous flesh to which a strong Caustic was oblig'd to be apply'd"

Jan. 13
" Friday Wind W by N Clear weather and intensely sharp. water freezes within eighteen Inches of a good fire. Mr Colen had the tip of his middle Finger cut off. Isbester and Sinclair under the Surgeons Care. Duncan off duty the rest as Monday last"

Jan. 14
" Saturday Wind West clear sharp weather best part of this day 6 men opening the water hole and putting food into it 4 at the Pitsaw Guthrie making a bread trough the ailing as Yesterday the rest variously employed. This morning about 4? past 6 the moon was totally eclipsed. Wm Rich brought 78 Partridges"

Jan. 15
" Sunday Wind N by W Water now freezes in my room within two feet of a good fire"

Jan. 16
" Monday Wind N by W thick weather and as cold as ever I knew. English Brandy freezes as hard as Butter in warmish weather. Robert Tennant brought 100 Partridges by the gun and 16 ditto at home. Two men sawing a log to make a great Sled to haul Timber on. 4 sawing weather boards Guthrie planing Boards Bews Jobbing the Cooper setting up Rundlets one taylor at work for the men Isbester William Sinclair and Mr Colen under the Surgeons Care the later thank God much better the rest Cooking cutting firewood and other necefsary Jobs"

Jan. 17
" Tuesday wind West clear sharp weather the men employed as Yesterday Received 13 Partridges to day an Indian man died by the bursting of an internal blood vefsel. he hath left a Widow and four Children"

Jan. 18
" Wednesday Wind WSW and Clear the weather not quite so cold Guthrie making a Sled to haul Timber on. Robert Sinclair and one man planing weather and other boards 4 men sawing ditto. Bews and one man splitting Iron bars one Taylor at work for Indian Orphan Children the ailing as on monday last. ten Partridges to day 16 Partridges to day Three Indian men and two women came in from the North River well gooded they say they have been 20 Nights coming in and have seen a part of our home Indians one of whom hath lost a small lad. the rest all well they are to eager to go to Drinking to trade yet"

Jan. 19
" Thursday Wind SW by S mildish weather the sky partly Clouded all hands employed as Yesterday the Indians very drunk"

Jan.20
" Friday Light Airs at SW mild fine weather all hands (except Guthrie who is afsisting Mr Colen and me in trading with the Indians) employed as Yesterday. Whole Parchment Beaver 124 half 60 in coat and Scrap 9 ditto; in Rabbets 2 ditto; in Otter 11 ditto in Martens 33 Beaver in a Bear 2 ditto in Castorum 13? in all 224 made Beaver. After I had traded with them and made them very handsome Presents to the Leader etc. the Leader said I must give him a great deal more or he would go to Churchill for Mr Hearne said he hath sent me many presents and desires I will come to him and he will give me more of every thing than you do and if you do not give me more I will go there. now in Brandy only I had given him and his mates 30 Beaver which is a very heavy Expence"

Jan. 21
" Saturday Light Airs at North cloudy mild weather and in the afternoon snow. four men opening the water hole and taking food out and putting food into it. James Batt and an Indian lad brought 330 partridges as did John Mellam and David Thompson with 300 ditto and one Red fox of the above partridges 300 was netted"

Jan. 22
" Sunday Light Airs at NNE Cloudy weather with a little snow Mr Colen and myself busy in getting the Indians away. a part of the Indians on the plantation went off with the North River Indians to whom I have given many large presents as also sent Brandy Tobacco Cloth and a few other articles to Indians Inland. have now on the plantation 35 Indians to feed. of the above 17 are widows or orphans 12 belong to the men gone with the Packet the rest very Infants"

Jan. 23
" Monday Light Airs and variable from NNE to S by E mild pleasant weather. Bews and Isbester at the forge splitting bars to make broad Ice Chifsels. Guthrie Robert Sinclair and John Ballanden planing boards Sebbeston Brown Edward Groundwater Linklater at the pit saw. Cooper setting up Rundlets for Inland. James Smith and William Sinclair mending and making partridge netts. the rest Cooking Cutting Firewood and other necefsary Jobbs"

Jan. 24
" Tuesday Wind North moderate cloudy weather asll hands employed as Yesterday. tryed a piece of pork and find it dry?"

Jan. 25
" Wednesday Wind Northerly most of the day Cloudy and raw cold no alteration in the mens employ. Received 13 Partridges"

Jan. 26
" Thursday Wind variable from SW to West the Sun rose Clear but soon was clouded with Snow. the weather very cold. All hands as on Monday last. This Day the box of Herbs was opened. most of which was mouldy not having any papers round them but in a jumble together and the Thyme in particular had hardly a leaf on it. A piece of Pork was this day boiled; it weighed before it went into the Pot 5 1/2 lbs and when cold not quite 1 3/4 lbs when the water was cold that it was boiled in the fat taken of it weighed 3 lbs. a piece was tryed before which shrunk equally with the above. on which Account I am obliged to serve each mefs 4 Pieces instead of 3 ditto this pork came out last year and is to the sight before boiling fine meat. this pork was fresh?"

Jan. 27
" Friday a hard gale variable from SSW to W by S much drift and Snow but not very cold. the 4 men who were sawing boards are now preparing to go to afsist at the woods it being too bad to day to work out and more men being wanted at the woods. Guthrie Robert Sinclair planing boards. Bews making flat Ice Chifsels. Cooper setting up Rundlets. Isbester the Taylor cutting out Lieutenant's Coats. Smith the Taylor and my Servant making a Partridge net. Gilbert Duncan of no Service the rest Cooking tending the Cattle Hogs etc. Received 24 Partridges Abraham Melvin under the Surgeons Care"

Jan. 28
" Saturday Wind variable from North back to West and back to SW the weather part Clear. 4 men preparing for the woods. five opening Cleansing and taking food out of the watering hole also putting more into it. Received 200 Partridges from tenshilling Creek and 300 from the Eastern Tent with a Red Fox. the Wooders came home for food served them and the men at home 21 Days food and to the hunters 14 Days the rest till noon as Yesterday. 400 of the above Partridges by the Nett"

Jan. 29
" Sunday Wind ENE blows hard and much snow. 16 men rigging the new great Sled to go to the woods as they did not come home soon enough to get what they wanted out of the Books on Saturday they were served them to day. the hunters returned to their Tents"

Jan. 30
" Monday Wind NNW thick sharp weather Henry Garroch and 15 men returned to the woods. Bews at the forge. Guthrie planing boards Robert Sinclair and John Ballenden finishing sawing two timber sticks left on the Pit. the Cooper setting up Rundlets for inland. Isbester at work for trade and Presents. Smith the Taylor at work for one of the men. one man with the Horse bringing Slabbs into the Yard. Melvin under the Surgeons Care. Received six Partridges today"

Jan. 31
" Tuesday Wind N by W a Clear Zenith but thick Horizon and the weather intensely cold. the men employed much the same as Yesterday"

Feb. 1 1786
" Wednesday Wind North and sharp the weather part Clear part Cloudy. Guthrie and Robert Sinclair making doors for the new building the rest as on monday last. Mr Colen and old Indian went to set his guns and traps in order. one White fox from him."

Feb. 2
" Thursday Wind variable NWerly sharp weather sometimes Clear. two men with the Horse and Sled getting firewood into the Yard. Bews making Hinges for the new building the rest as Yesterday four partirdges to day"

Feb. 3
" Friday Very thick weather wind SW till night when North by W cold unpleasant weather. Bews brought 36 flat Ice Chifsels which will be carried to account. Guthrie and Sinclair making doors. Cooper blocking Rundlets. Ballanden planing weather boards. one Taylor cutting out Lieutenant's Coats the other making them. the rest variously employed. Once more I am obliged to Complain to your Honours of the Irritating behaviour of the Surgeon who after accusing me of encouraging the Indians to insult him and threatening to send some of them away called me by the more opprobious names. I am naturally passionate and having been sorely afflicted with the gout Flying from head to foote, am, I own also at times peevish, the aforesaid accusations aroused me to too greater heights of passion. I gave him language like his own, threw some bumboo in his face and tryed to shove him down stairs, for part of this behavior I own my Self blameable but flesh and blood cannot bear with such expressions as Old Brute, Lyar, Scoundrel etc. etc.. Indeed he is a sly morose sour man and notwithstanding he hath both guns sett and traps made for catching Foxes and martens etc. I have received but one marten from them and that was brought in by an Indian Woman. He is continually threatening to send some Indians away and says if he doth they come no more here. Indeed my putting a stop to his giving the Indians frequently Brandy hath given some of them disgust. how unhappy must be the Situation of a man troubled with that cruel disorder a wandering gout. but when in deep pain in various parts of the body and not knowing but a few hours may put an end to his existance instead of finding a soothing friend or an agreeable Companion in the Surgeon is too frequently upbraided with being not only peevish but Tyrannical by the very person that advice etc. ought to administer Comfort."

Feb. 4
" Saturday Wind variable from West to SE by E fine clear weather. four men opening and Cleaning the Victualling hole and taking food out of it. Guthrie and two men at work for the new building the rest bringing firewood into the yard cutting it up and Cooking &c. James Batt and Wm Rich brought 270 Partridges as did the Armourer and David Thompson 300 the latter all netted and 200 of the former. The Surgeon this afternoon demanded in a peremptory manner to have his food served out separately. this I refused as the demand was made with some false and threatening Exprefsions. It is evident by his general behaviour which is insolent in the highest degree he wants me to strike him. this Mr Colen hath remarked and desired I would guard against it"

Feb. 5
" Sunday A hard gale variable from E by N to SSE with a heavy drift not cold. Divine Service to day. the Surgeon out most part of the day nor did he come up to Supper. the hunters went to their Tents"

Feb. 6
" Monday Wind variable from NW back to West the weather very thick a great drift and uncomfortable weather untill half past 10 AM when it cleared for some time. Bews forging fire steels. Guthrie and Robert Sinclair making doors. Ballanden not well. the Cooper setting up Rundlets. one Taylor at work for the men the other cutting out Coats for trade and Presents. the rest Cooking tending the Cattle and Cutting firewood. the Surgeon came up to breakfast."

Feb. 7
" Tuesday Wind Variable from North to NW blows hard a great drift and exceeding raw cold and uncomfortable weather. the men employed much the same as Yesterday. Mr Colen who was at the back of this island today declared it was so thick with drift and rime that he could hardly see the end of his gun and so cold that he could not reload the setting guns."

Feb. 8
" Wednesday Variable wind from NW round to North a heavy drift the weather raw cold and uncomfortable. the tradesmen with their Afsistants employed in their several Callings the rest with Mr Colen putting things to rights in various places. myself exceeding pained with the gout in my right hand not a little in my left hand and somewhat in the head. Gilbert Duncan of no manner of use, yet he can destroy as much food as any man at the House"

Feb. 9
" Thursday Wind North the weather much milder than Yesterday and lefs wind and drift. Mefs Colen and Robinson with my Servant hunting. Sixteen at the woods. six at the hunting tents. one gone with the Packet. Bews forging steels Guthrie Robert Sinclair and Jn Ballanden at work for the new Building the Cooper setting up Rundlets. two taylors at work for trade and presents two Cutting firewood one Cooking one Cyphering Duncan a glutton and lazy myself old and crazy. Received 17 Partridges to'day"

Feb. 10
" Friday Wind West moderate weather at 1/2 past 10 AM Mr John Ballanden and three Indians returned with Letters Stores and Trading Goods from Churchill thank God all well. an Indian brought 3 Rabbets and 12 Partridges one white fox from Mr Colen and one from Mr Robinson the latter brought home by an Indian woman"

Feb. 11
" Saturday Wind variable from North to West moderately cold weather mostly Cloudy. four men opening and Cleaning the Victualling hole taking food out and putting more into it. the rest cutting firewood Cooking and other necefsary Jobbs. The Hunters from tenshilling Creek brought their things home with 250 Partridges one Coloured fox and one Marten. Robert Tennant brought 200 Partridges 4 men came from the woods with the old great Sled and to take up some food left last trip. shall send two more hands to afsist at the woods on Monday and one to the Hunting tent at the Crofs Creek to which our hunters had pitched some time since"

Feb. 12
" Sunday Wind N by E variable a little each way fine Clear weather Tennant returned to his Tent as did the four wooders to theirs"

Feb. 13
" Monday Wind variable from NNW to North the morning delightfully Clear and pleasant tho sharp afternoon somewhat Cloudy. Sent Wm Rich and Wm Corrigal to afsist at the woods Guthrie making window frames Robert Sinclair and John Ballanden planing and edging boards. Bews forging fire steels. Cooper setting up Rundlets. Abraham Melvin under the Surgeons Care. Mr Colen went to his traps 4 Partridges from him and 14 from my Servant the rest variously employed"

Feb. 14
" Tuesday Wind variable from West back to North Men employed much the same as Yesterday two familys of Indians 19 in Number went away to hunt and trap over the North River. more will go to Morrow when their Numbers will be ascertained. Partridges having been seen in numbers near the House rigged a net to Catch them"

Feb. 15
" Wednesday Wind between the North and West? exceeding sharp weather and tolerable Clear. Bews making a trivet. Guthrie R Sinclair and Jn Ballanden at work for the new building the Cooper blocking Rundlets two taylors at work on trading Coats and for the men. eighteen at the woods four at the hunting tent. Melvin not well Gilbert Duncan of no use. one with me setting the upper store room to rights one Cooking one tending the Cattle and at times striking to the Smith"

Feb. 16
" Thursday Wind NNW clear and exceeding sharp. several Indians would have pitched away to day had not the weather been too cold. all the men employed much the same as Yesterday. Mr Ballanden myself and a few Indians caught 30 Partridges with the net on the Plantation gave the Natives one half of them for afsisting us"

Frb. 17
" Friday Wind WNW the Weather clear but so exceeding sharp that Mr Colen who went to look at his guns and traps was obliged to return with much speed. Yet the Indians eleven in number were determined to Pitch away tho not before I had given them 2 Yards of Duffle. our men employed nearly the same as Yesterday. altho' Partridges are numerous on the Plantation not one would come near the netts to day and having a good stock in hand I do not chuse to expend Powder or shot on them. gave the Indians a little Brandy and Tobacco besides the above mentioned Duffle that went away this Day"

Feb. 18
" Saturday Wind NNW tho' intensely cold with a low drift. two hunters brought 250 Partridges and 2 Red and 2 White foxes. 16 of the wooders came home for food. five men opening the watering hole and taking food out of it. Mr Ballenden and my Servant and the Cooper serving out provisions the rest variously employed"

Feb. 19
" Sunday Wind WSW the weather Clear and somewhat more moderate. hunters went away. Ordered David Thompson to bring his things he being much frost bitten in the face. Mr Colen performed Divine Service"

Feb. 20
" Monday Wind in the morning SW afternoon NNE and NE the weather milder than for several Days past. Sometimes saw the Sun thro a light haze. Mr Colen and Mr Robinson with my Servant cleaning guns traps &c. Abraham Melvin under the Surgeons Care Mefs Ballanden and Marten writing all the rest except the Cook and Duncan cutting firewood. one white fox from my Guns and 2 Partridges netted"

Feb. 21
" Tuesday wind North a clear zenith but a very thick horizon and much rime the weather intensely sharp the men employed much the same as Yesterday"

Feb. 22
" Wednesday Wind variable from SW back to NE the weather exceeding cold and thick. David Thompson brought his things home no alteration in the mens employ"

Feb. 23
" Thursday Wind variable from NNW to NNE exceeding sharp weather too cold to work out of doors consequently the Tradesmen are employed in their several Callings the few others employed in tending the Hogs Cattle Cooking and other necefsary Jobs"

Feb. 24
" Friday wind till 8? AM SW by W the rest of the day N by E part of the day moderate the rest very sharp blew fresh with a low drift. 6 men cutting firewood two hunting the rest Cooking and drefsing 4 Small pigs? myself very ill with a pain in my head neck left Shoulder and Stomach. Matthew Barrow hurted himself by a fall"

Feb. 25
" Saturday Wind variable NWerly moderate clear weather. four men opening and cleaning the victualling holes and taking food out of the former the rest cutting firewood and stowing it away. Robert Tennant and an Indian youth brought 300 netted partridges and 3 Coloured foxes. ordered him to bring the Tent &c (to a place acrofs the River where I Intend to have some firewood cut) on Friday next"

Feb. 26
" Sunday Wind NNW variable a few points both ways. last night and a great part of this day the weather exceeding sharp. this continuance of cold weather occaisions a prodigous Consumption of firewood. the Officers declaring they cannot do without an almost Constant fire. the firewood already consumed is I think as much as ever I Remember during a whole winter in any year since I have been in your honours Service. Robert Tennant and the Indian returned to the Hunting Tent. an Indian man came from the North River with 4 Foxes 3 Martens and 90 Partridges traded them all"

Feb. 27
" Monday Light Airs at SW by W clear sharp weather. Bews at the forge making steels. Guthrie and one man fixing Crofs beams to the landing place of the Launch"

Feb. 28
" Tuesday Wind Variable from SW round to E by N very pleasant weather. Guthrie and two men at work for the new building. the rest as Yesterday an Indian traded 100 Partridges"

March 1 1786
" Wednesday Wind SW raw weather and clear at times blew fresh. Sent Mr John Ballanden with three men to pitch on a proper place to fix a wooding tent acrofs the River and cut Tent poles &c which they did and returned the rest employed as on monday last"

Mar. 2
" Thursday Wind SW fine moderate weather the Carpenter and two men at work on the new building. Bews filing falling hatchets two taylors at work for trade Cooper making Rundlets two hunting 3 partridges the rest cooking cutting wood &c"

Mar. 3
" Friday Wind SW charming weather all the men employed as Yesterday except Mefs? Ballanden and Robinson and My Servant who are hunting 37 partridges from them"

Mar. 4
" Saturday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday much overflowing in the South Channel the Hunter came to the House with 375 Partridges one Quequehatch and 2 foxes the men at home getting with the Horse and Sled firewood and Stockades into the yard and cutting up part of the former. Henry Garroch came from the woods he informs me they have felled 140 pieces of Timber and cut paths which takes up much time as the Timber is straggling to haul them through"

Mar. 5
" Sunday last night the wind shifted to the North where it hath Continued all this day the weather cold and thick with some snow. Henry Garroch returned to his Tent. Mr Colen and Mr Ballanden Performed Divine Service. an Indian brought 11 Rabbets and a Pair of Snow Shoes which he traded and went away. myself exceedingly bad with the head ach"

Mar. 6
" Monday Wind variable from NNW to N by E sharp Clear part of the day and part Cloudy. Mr Colen got one Red Fox as did David Thompson a white one. Bews making Iron work for a great Sled Guthrie John Ballanden and Robert Tennant and two others went over the River to fall firewood. Duncan of no use Matthew Barrow under the Surgeons Care one tending the Cattle and Hogs eighteen at the woods two writing"

Mar. 7
" Tuesday Wind variable from SW to N by E the weather in the morning and evening sharp but from Eleven to Two Mildish. the men employed the same as Yesterday at six PM one English and two Indians arrived with letters from Severn house. But none from the three lower Settlements. thank god at Severn they are all well"

Mar. 8
" Wednesday Light Airs from West to North the weather raw cold and somewhat thick. Sent Mefs Ballanden and Colen to the wooders tent to make observations on the work already done and what is farther necefsary to be done. The Armourer came from over the River wooding Tent with some falling hatchets lately made They being exceeding bad. he brought two Red Foxes and returned Directly. Bews at work on a lock for Severn House the rest as Yesterday"

Mar. 9
" Thursday This Morning clear pleasant mild weather light Airs at North at Noon it blew fresh at SW by W the weather cloudy and raw cold. myself and two men with the Horse went over the River to try to get some firewood hauled home which could not be done on account of the badnefs of the Road. Guthrie and two men building the new warehouse two Taylors at work for Trade the few others variously employed Mefs Ballanden and Colen returned and made a favourable report of the work done. John Wood came from the Woods to go to Severn in the room of Edward Tomison who goes home at Shiptime"

Mar. 10
" Friday Wind variable from West to N by W the weather very clear and sharp. the men (all but the Carpenter and his two Afsistants who are making Chocks for the Sled to set the long boat on to be hauled home) employed as on Thursday 5 Partridges by the gun and 8 by the net to day"

Mar. 11
" Saturday Wind N by W the weather very thick and very sharp. the Men opening cleansing and getting food into the Victualling hole. all the wooders came home for food and to afsist in getting the Longboat home as did the men from over the River"

Mar. 12
" Sunday Thick hazy weather wind variable from West to North Divine Service to'day. 4 Indians brought 38 Martens skins 6 Foxes and 260 Partridges traded all"

Mar. 13
" Monday Clear fine weather Wind N wardly early this morning the men with the Severn Packet set of for that Place. Mr Ballanden and 28 men went with the great Sled to bring the longboat to the Factory. most of the Indians went away gave them some Tobacco Bread Oatmeal Flour Biscuits and Prunes. Mr Ballanden with the men brought the Longboat abreast the House it was a heavy Job to do it and the great Sled was broke by it in the Midships. one White Fox from Mr Colen"

Mar. 14
" Tuesday Light Airs variable from W by N to NNE the weather except the middle of the day cold. Mr Colen with 4 men went to the back of this Island to bring a buoy home that was drove from its moorings last fall, it was brought home. Mr Ballanden with Henry Garroch and most of the other hands getting the Longboat into the Creek mending the great Sled and getting things ready to go to where the Longboat lays on the Eastern shore to get her either to the Fourteens or if pofsible to the Fort. one Red fox from the Surgeon."

Mar. 15
" Wednesday A stiff gale at WSW cloudy weather at five AM Mr Ballenden Henry Garroch and 27 men with the great Sled set off to where the Longboat lately belonging to Churchill and lost by the french lieth on the Eastern shore. they took with them Powder and Shot to be left the Fourteens gave them 3 Gallons of Brandy 60 lbs of Biscuit and 30 lbs of Cheese two Hunting three writing one Cooking"

Mar. 16
" Thursday Wind SW thawed a good deal to'day 29 Men with the great Sled the rest employed as Yesterday one blue fox from Mr Colen"

Mar. 17
" Friday Wind and Weather as Yesterday 29 men with the great Sled the few at home looking after guns traps and hunting Cooking tending the Cattle &c David Thompson brought 2 Red Foxes received 13 Partridges"

Mar. 18
" Saturday a fresh gale at SW and warm weather part Clear part Cloudy At 3 PM Mr Ballanden and the men with the great Sled returned they have hauled the Long boat to within about a Mile of the Fourteens but the great Sled being broke in several Places and the men greatly fatigued they were obliged to leave her. in about a fortnight shall strive to get her into a place of safety. the four men at home opening the watering hole and cutting a Little Firewood"

Mar. 19
" Sunday Wind NNE cloudy warm weather four men under the Surgeons Care Mr Colen and David Thompson went to their guns two foxes eaten"

Mar. 20
" Monday Wind ENE blew fresh with snow very thick Guthrie and two men mending the great Sled Bews Jobbing the rest with a middling Sled hauling firewood Cooking tending Cattle and other necvefsary Jobs"

Mar. 21
" Tuesday Wind variable moderate weather Guthrie and two men at work on the new Shed Sent Henry Garroch and 16 men to the woods sent 3 Men to cut firewood &c over the River two looking after Guns and traps Bews making firesteels two Cleaning the Copper for brewing to Morrow. myself and two Lads tying up Rabbet Skins two not well two Taylors at work for trade An old Indian man brought 2 White Foxes 10 Rabbets and one Pair of Snow shoes and to beg a little Food which he got and went away"

Mar. 22
" Wednesday Wind Easterly fine moderate weather two men brewing Guthrie and two men laying on the roof of the new shed. Mr Colen got two white foxes sent another man over the River the rest as Yesterday"

Mar. 23
" Thursday Wind SW by S pleasant clear weather sent another man over the River to fall firewood which makes five in all Mr Colen having had a fox or two eat at his Guns and (as he thinks) one or more Stolen from them desired to go and stay out near them for a few nights which he did early this Morning the rest of the men employed much the same as Yesterday"

Mar. 24
" Friday A fresh gale at NNE drifts much with some snow. Wm Bews straightning nails for roofing the new building three writing the rest employed much the same still. Received 6 Partridges"

Mar. 25
" Saturday Wind variable from W by N to NE the weather sharp and thickish. a man came from the woods for some provisions left behind last tuesday as did two from over the River to bake bread. three at work on the house Bews at work on old Nails two taylors at work for trade one tending the Cattle and Hogs one Cooking two writing Gilbert Duncan of no use Mr Colen abroad"

Mart. 26
" Sunday A fresh gale at North the morning 'till 9 O'Clock thick and some snow in the night. Divine Service to'day Mr Colen brought 3 White and one blew fox the men returned to their Tents At eight at night Robert Garroch and an Indian arrived from Churchill they buried one Man John Petre who died the first Instant the rest thank God all well"

Mar. 27
" Monday Wind North the weather part Clear part Cloudy and moderate. Mr Colen returned to his Tent Mr Ballenden the Surgeon and David Thompson hunting. Guthrie and two men at work on the house Bews straightning nails for the Roof and flooring of the House. two Taylors at work for trade 17 up the River getting Timber five over the River falling firewood one tending the Cattle &c one Cooking the rest variously employed"

Mar. 28
" Tuesday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday Robert Sinclair not well the Tradesmen employed as Yesterday Myself very ill Robert Garroch went to see his Brother at the woods. Received 7 Partridges from the Surgeon."

Mar. 29
" Wednesday In the Morning an easy Breeze at North and thickish in the Afternoon blew very hard with a great drift and very cold. Robert and Henry Garroch came to the House having some businefs to transact between themselves. one white fox brought from my Guns by my Servant with 3 Partridges and one white fox from Mr Ballenden's Guns by David Thompson the rest of the men employed ason Monday last"

Mar. 30
" Thursday Much snow last night. this day the weather very sharp and Clear got everything ready to send the Packet off to Churchill to morrow. Robert Tennant and the Cooper came home to write letters to Churchill Henry Garroch returned to the woods the men at home employed as Yesterday. Received 6 Partridges paid the Indian and English men for bringing the Packet 8 Partridges and one Rabbet to'day"

Mar. 31
" Friday Wind variable from NW to E by N fine sharp clear weather. the Packet men set off for Churchill. the men employed on the building the forge filling the Copper and other necefsary Jobs. Tennant and the Cooper returned to their Tent"

April 1 1786
" Saturday Wind NE by E variable a little to the Eastward in the morning the weather Clear and exceeding sharp in the Evening somewhat milder and not so Clear. All the Wooders Viz. 22 came for food. four opening the watering hole. three at work on the new building two Hunting two serving food two making Coats for trade one Cooking one tending the Cattle Received 130 Partridges. Myself took a walk to the back of the Island to see Mr Colen. An Indian brought 11 White Foxes one blue and one Red ditto also 17 Martins as did another with 100 of the above Partridges and 2 Pairs of Snow Shoes"

Apr. 2
" Sunday Exceeding raw cold clear weather Wind SW. 5 of the wooders went to their Tents myself very ill with a Billious Cholic"

Apr. 3
" Monday Wind variable from SW to NNE the weather part Clear part Cloudy and sharp. 17 men returned to the woods. Guthrie and two men at work on the new building Bews at the forge one Taylor cutting out coats for trade and presents two Grinding Oatmeal three hunting. 12 Partridges 2 White foxes from my Guns by my Servant and two from Mr John Ballenden's by David Thompson one Cooking the rest Jobbing two Indians brought 20 Martens 2 Coloured foxes and 6 white ones with 13 Rabbet Skins which they traded and went to their families at the back of this Island. being came in for the Goose hunt gave them some bread prunes flour and Pease Tobacco and Brandy"

Apr. 4
" Tuesday A fresh gale at North cloudy cold weather the men employed as Yesterday. having no hay left this Month past am obliged to employ the Indians to bring Birch Willows and Alder to keep the Cattle alive for which I gave them a little Bumboo and Biscuit. I had 6 Men at the hay Island for a long time but either through Lazinefs or want of Knowledge they did not cut so much grafs as two good mowers could do in fourteen days"

Apr. 5
" Wednesday Wind variable from N to NE by N raw cold thickish weather. took the Horse and Sled and? two men to conduct it over the River to see how our people go there. Find things in pretty good order. three men weather boarding the new building. Bews lame having run a large nail into his foot. two hunting Received two Red and one White fox by David Thompson from Mr Ballenden's Guns nine Partridges from the Surgeon two Taylors at work for Trade the rest shovling snow"

Apr. 6
" Thursday Wind variable from N by W to ENE a thick cold rime from sea roak. the men that went with me yesterday afsisting the Carpenter and shovling snow. the rest employed much the same as Yesterday. Mr Colen sent 5 White foxes and 20 Partridges home"

Apr. 7
" Friday wind variable from W by S round to East and back to North. last night and part of this morning exceeding sharp the rest of the day warm and fine. Bews making hinges Guthrie and two men at work on the House. two Taylors at work for trade. one Cooking two shovling snow two writing two hunting 12 Partridges from the Surgeon and 100 ditto and 2 Pairs of Snow shoes from Indians"

Apr. 8
" Saturday Wind very variable and much the same as Yesterday the weather much milder. two wooders came to bake bread and grind hatchets Mr Colen brought one White fox Received 19 Partridges from my Servant the men employed as Yesterday"

Apr. 9
" Sunday Light Airs variable from West round to East the weather at times very thick the wooders returned to their Tents. Myself exceedingly ill with the head ach and Cholic. an Indian brought one hundred partridges to trade and returned to his Tent."

Apr.10
" Monday Wind variable much the same as Yesterday the weather cloudy and not cold. Bews making hinges for the new building. Guthrie and two men at work on it. Two taylors at work for trade three writing two hunting one Cooking and tending the Cattle. Duncan of no Service. Myself Ill with the head ach and pain in my bowels. 6 Partridges from my Servant"

Apr. 11
" Tuesday Wind SSE blew fresh and somewhat sharp 'till noon when the wind abated and the weather grew much warmer. myself with two men the Horse and Sled went over the River part for recreation and part to see how things go on there. Mr Ballenden went to his Guns one white fox from him the rest of the men as Yesterday an Indian brought 100 partridges was paid for them and returned to the back of the island. Received 4 partridges from my Servant"

Apr. 12
" Wednesday Wind very variable from SSE to N by W 'till noon when it settled at the last point some rain last night and thawed much to'day 'till 8 PM when the wind greatly increased and it began to freeze hard. two men shovling snow and cutting drains the rest employed as Yesterday"

Apr. 13
" Thursday Wind somewhat variable each side of NE clear sharp weather yet it thaws on the Sunny Side of the Factory William Bews making hinges for the new building. Guthrie and two men at work on it. two taylors at work for trade one Cooking three writing Mr Colen went to his Guns two White foxes from him one tending the Cattle Twenty two at the woods two shovling snow Duncan of no service"

Apr. 14
" Friday Drifting blowing weather at 2 PM much snow the wind ESE the men employed as Yesterday 'till Eleven in the forenoon when they clensed themselves and come decently up to Divine Service"

Apr. 15
" Saturday Light Airs variable from West to North and back again. the weather Clear and in the middle of the Day warm. three men at work on the new building the rest variously employed nine men came from the woods to stay at the factory and three to bake bread. Received one Blue fox by David Thompson from Mr Ballandens Guns also 6 Partridges from my Servant and 10 from the Surgeon"

Apr. 16
" Sunday Light Airs variable all round the Compafs thawing Clear weather the Divine Service suitable to the day. three men returned to the woods"

Apr. 17
" Monday wind SW clear warm weather all day Bews Jobbing Wm Guthrie and 6 men at work on and for the new building the Cooper trimming Casks two taylors at work for trade one Cooking Robert Tennant came to the House ordered him to leave the tent standing and to bring all other things to the House to morrow. gave the usual Presents to 45 Indians great and Small for the Goose hunt. In the above number of Indians are no more than 5 real hunters and ten grown women such havock hath Death made amongst the Elderly Indians for I well remember when we could number 86 good men hunters besides stout boys consequently the ravages by death are much more detrimental to your Honours Interest than those made by the Enemy. Received two pairs of Snow shoes in the Evening filled the Copper"

Apr. 18
" Tuesday A brisk gale all the forenoon at SSW thaw'd much at 3 PM the wind came to North part of the Day clear part Cloudy. two men brewing All the Tradesmen and their Afsistants as Yesterday the rest shovling snow three men brought their things from over the River"

Apr. 19
" Wednesday All last night the wind variable Northerly and froze hard. to day came round to NE by E and at 4 PM to S by E thawed much in the middle of the day. the Armourer cleaning and mending guns the Carpenter and two men at work on the new building four men siding ? slabs? five men went for firewood over the River and returned one with a dog went for hay to the hay island four miles distant and returned with a smal Quantity which he says is all yet to be got the rest being covered with snow. The Cooper trimming Casks Two taylors at work for trade two Cooking two partly tunning? beer and partly Jobbing. Mefs Ballanden and Colen overseeing the men and giving various Directions. Henry Garroch came from the woods with nine men the work done at the woods up the River since the men went there in the fall in good sticks for building 3 hundred. tops? and Sticks good for Quartering and Joists 200 with one winters firewood felled and hauled to the Bank Edge ready for rafting as soon as time will permit and a large winters firewood felled and now laying as it fell the rest of the men variously employed. Myself of very little Service as the Medicines sent out are not or cannot be properly apply'd. Indeed the usage I have Received and the foul Language given me by the Surgeon hath sunk deep and wounded me (tho' I hope I am entirely innocent) to the very Soul. It may be asked why I Complained not before I answer I pityed the inexperience and youth of the person I considered he had imbibed principles of distrust and disgust from Captain Christopher and I was in hopes that he would soon be Convinced of the Errors he had been led into. lately either through the admonition or behaviour of Mefs Ballanden and J Colen he hath not been insolent. Yet I have been forced to comply with his demands of not only keeping a girl but also of his taking down Breakfast Dinner and Supper for her. And though I have often in his Sight been in Agonies with my Stomach yet he never hath offered me a drop of Cordial except a bottle of Stomach Tincture and a bottle of Cinnamon Water"

Apr. 20
" Thursday A Pleasant Gale at SW the weather very warm part Clear and part Cloudy the Armourer cleaning and mending hunting guns Guthrie and 5 men at work on the new building. Bews Jobbing Cooper making Rundlets for various uses two taylors at work for trade Robert Sinclair and me at work on the Long Boat one tarring the roof of the new building two Cooking one tending the Cattle the rest getting the Strong beer and vinegar out of the Ground and shovling snow rubbish &c"

Apr. 21
" Friday Wind variable N erly warm in the middle of the day the rest of it cold. the men employed much the same as yesterday a few Summer Birds seen"

Apr. 22
' Saturday Light Airs variable from North to NE very little frost last night. Thaw'd much to day. at 1/2 past 2 PM Mr Joseph Colen Robert Tennant with 3 Dogs and Sleds went to the back of the Island to the Place where one of the large french landing boats was stranded and in which a good Quantity of rope fit to make Sinnet was left. at 11 PM they returned heartily tired with a good Supply. Little alteration in the mens employ. An Indian came in with a Duck to day gave him and his Tentmates a little meal bread &c. I cannot help remarking that neither punk? or Chaulk hath been brought to us the two last Shiptimes altho' both have been Indented for twice and twice mentioned in the Invoice as sent out"

Apr. 23
" Sunday Wind SWerly the weather warm. Divine Service for the Day"

Apr. 24
" Monday Wind 'till 6 O'Clock AM SW and very clear weather the rest of the Day Wind Werly and Cloudy. All the Tradesmen and Afsistants 'till 10 AM employed in their several Callings, the rest making sinnet and shovling snow after which all hands exercising small Arms"

Apr. 25
" Tuesday Wind SW cloudy moderate weather the Armourer mending hunting guns. Cooper Jobbing on casks Guthrie and five men at work on and for the new building. the Smith Jobbing two taylors at work for trade one making table Cloths two breaking up old Cordage. two Cooking the rest Carrying rubbish to ram in behind the Stakes drove in before the bank to preserve it last fall by Mr Colen. three writing. received one Goose to day. several ducks seen and much water along the shore. this afternoon several deer were seen in the plains behind the factory sent several men after them when one was killed by John Mellam another by Robert Tennant and a third by James Batt the weight of which 270 lbs the meat is fleshy tho' not fat. sent several men to afsist in getting it home. At 3 PM the river ice began breaking up at the hay island and stopped 3 miles distant upwards from the factory. Abraham Melvin had the misfortune to run the spike end of a Crofs cut saw into his Eye dangerously"

Apr. 26
" Wednesday A fresh gale at N by E the weather Cloudy. The tradesmen employed much the same as yesterday. three deer hunting one from the Surgeon weight 60 lbs three writing the rest building a deer hedge and setting deer snares. An Indian came in to inform me he had killed eight deer and to ask afsistance to get them to the factory. Received one goose to'day The South channel broke up abreast the house much water ran over the flats and much along shore the Ice very high at the mile sand and hath an ugly appearance. several Geese and deer seen to'day myself declining fast as I receive no afsistance from the Surgeon"

Apr. 27
" Thursday Wind NNE blows fresh froze pretty hard last night raw cold to'day and in the Afternoon some showers of snow. Sent Mr John Ballanden with 17 men for venison they came home greatly fatigued with 646 lbs of venison including hearts and livers. the rest employed as Yesterday. the river Ice much the same as Yesterday"

Apr. 28
" Friday Wind NE the weather part clear part cloudy moderate as to cold. Sent 21 men to continue building the new deer hedge. the Carpenter and one man at work on the house. Robert Sinclair mending a boat two Cooking one taylor at work for the men and two for trade. one under the Surgeons Care one of no use four writing Bews and the Armourer at their several Callings the rest variously employed. An Indian brought 3 Pairs of Snow shoes 4 Paddles and some Indian pitch to trade he went away directly. There is now a small sheet of water open a little above the house in middle Channel about half a mile long much water along shore and the rest of the River covered with large Pieces of broken Ice, or large fields"

Apr. 29
" Saturday A fresh gale at NNE warm weather in the middle of the day and Clear. the rest Cloudy and raw cold. All hands employed much the same as Yesterday. received one Duck. George Gun cut his leg in a bad manner. Matthew Barrow shewed evident signs of an insane mind as he hath in a slight degree several times before. an Indian boy came to inform us 11 deer was killed by an old man about 7 1/2 miles distance and to desire men may be sent to bring it home which shall be done on Monday next"

Apr. 30
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday froze smartly? last night. an Indian brought 2 small Deer weight 120 lbs"

May 1 1786
" Monday Wind Easterly raw cold weather part Clear and part Cloudy Wm Guthrie and one man at work on the House. Bews Jobbing Armourer cleaning hunting Guns. Robert Sinclair and Robert Tennant mending a Boat. Melvin and Gun under the Surgeons Care. Duncan of no Service. Two Cooking three writing one tending the Cattle three taylors at work for the men and trade. sent 17 Men for Venison they brought 740 lbs. received one Goose one Duck. Received ? 4 Dozen of Pewter Buttons from the Armourer. Matthew Barrow was displaced from being Cook for Nastinefs bad behaviour and inattention to the dae care of the Kitchen Utensils"

May 2
" Tuesday Wind ENE the weather much the same as Yesterday Sent 14 Men to carryon the Deer Hedge. made Wm Corrigal Cook the rest employed as Yesterday. Received two Ducks"

May 3
" Wednesday Light Airs variable all round the Compafs. the Armourer cleaning hunting guns. Cooper setting up Rundlets Guthrie and three men at work on and for the new building. Bews Robert Sinclair and one man repairing a boat. two men casting old lead into Ball. Three men twisting rope for Deer snares two Cooking the rest at work on the Deer hedge. got a small one weight 50 lbs. This Channel Ice all Day at Intervals in motion and at 7 PM we had clear water abreast the house. a good deal of Ice is on our shore and all the Islands above us are loaded with it. Received 3 Geese"

May 4
" Thursday Wind variable from ESE to N by W the weather part Clear part Cloudy part moderate and part raw cold. A little rain in the forenoon and light flurries of Snow in the Afternoon. Sent 4 English to hunt Geese &c at the Back of the Island. seven men finished the Deer Hedge which extends about 2 Miles and one half and hath about 70 Snares set in it. the rest as Yesterday a few Ducks seen to'day. this Channel clear two miles downwards. Robert Tennant Dislocated his knee"

May 5
" Friday A hard frost last night with some snow the wind North nearly all Day with raw cold cloudy weather. three men making sinnet the Cooper and one putting hot water into the Rundlets for inland to try them. Bews and one man making Swivels for the buoys the rest employed much the same as Yesterday"

May 6
" Saturday Wind ENE somewhat variable both ways the weather except in the middle of the Day cold and comfortlefs. Little or no Alteration in the mens employ Till the Afternoon when the men received 6 Days food. Mr Ballenden went in a Canoe to try to get into tenshilling Creek to fish but found the Ice had barricaded every entrance leading to it. much Ice drove out to sea yet very large body's are still lodged on the flatts south Shore and Islands and not a little on this shore, a few Ducks seen to'day"

May 7
" Sunday Wind variable from E by N to S by W warm pleasant weather. Divine Service was this Day performed in the New Building. The Armourer having absented himself full three Hours from the House. I asked him at his Return why he did not ask Liberty for so doing he replyed I have not been out of your sight all day ?? will I ask liberty to go out if it is not far"

May 8
" Monday Wind last night North raw cold with snow to'day the wind variable all round the Compafs with heavy dark Clouds and rain at times. The Armourer cleaning hunting guns. Cooper Jobbing Guthrie and three men at work on and for the new Building Robert Sinclair and one mending a Boat. three Taylors at work for the men and trade three under the Surgeons Care one Casting shot Low? Inded? four beating up uselefs Iron hooks (as they now are) for the Smith's use. two Cooking one went to the Deer Hedge he found four Deer in it they weighed free from offal 400 lbs. Received a few Geese and Ducks but as their number will be Ascertained at the Conclusion of the hunt shall not take notice of the particular days when they are Received.

Being fully sensible that it is for your honors interest to prevent your Servants from leaving the factory when they think proper and in obedience to repeated orders from the Honourable board to prevent the Company's Servants from so doing. I this Afternoon came to a Resolution to make the Armourer John Mellam promise obedience to this Order which hath been long fixed up in the Guard Room and beg pardon for the breach of it yesterday or Chastise him for disobedience and Contempt of your Orders ifsued by me. in order to this the following Transaction took place

The men being sent for and the Officers Desired to attend John Mellam being present the Chief said to Mr Ballanden pray read my Commifsion aloud which was done. when I put the following Questions to John Mellam you hear the Company gives me positive Orders to obey all orders I may receive from the Honourable board. I have received positive orders not to permit any person to absent themselves without leave no not for an hour. this order hath been long fixed in the Guard Room for the information of their Honors Servants. I therefore Demand of you in direct Terms Wether you will obey this Order or not and ask pardon for the breach of it yesterday. the Armourer said he would obey the order in future and asked pardon for yesterdays offence. I then said he might go about his duty as usual and I should take no further notice of it. I hope this example will have it's proper effect in preventing your Servants from going a gadding? and having improper Connections with the Natives"

May 9
" Tuesday Wind variable Westerly raw cold weather and Cloudy most part of this day and a few showers of hail as small as Gunpowder a little sun. Sent Mr John Ballanden and two men to the french creek to try for fish as also if pofsible to go to the fourteens to see what Conditions the things left there are in. the men at work in the gardens the rest much the same as Yesterday"

May 10
" Wednesday Wind W by S nearly a hard frost last night clear and moderate to'day 14 Canoes of home Indians containing 12 married men 14 Women and 24 Children (some of whom stout boys and girls) came to the house poorly gooded. they brought 795 lbs of venison 3 Geese and one beaver to trade. got a fine buck from the hedge weight 140 lbs. Mr John Ballanden returned the things at present in safety at the fourteens but there is too much water on the ground ice to get to the long boat. Wm Guthrie and 5 men leading the roof of the new building. Robert Sinclair and one at work on the boat. Bews making Swivels for the buoys. Cooper making pickle and cleaning Hogsheads for venison. Armourer cleaning hunting Guns. two taylors at work for trade and the men. two at work in the Garden two Cooking Gun under the Surgeons Care Duncan of no use two writing the rest getting venison home and other necefsary Jobs."

May 11
" Thursday Wind in the morning North cloudy cold weather. in the afternoon the wind East blowed hard with a great flight of snow and very cold. Mr Colen with several men cleaning and Salting venison the rest as yesterday several of the Indians paid their debts and had a very little left to trade when they had done drinking. Received to'day from the Indians 480 lbs of venison which with that received yesterday from them is 1275 lbs when this meat came to be salted. the bones taken from it weighed 108 lbs which is deducted from that charged in the Provision book. the bones were partly given to the men and partly boiled to see what fat could be got from them"

May 12
" Friday Light Airs variable from North to West and back to NE thawed a little in the middle of the day. all the Tradesmen at work in their several callings their Afsistants attending them. the rest of the men variously employed. a few furs traded to day by the Indians for Liquor. Mr Colen who frequently does small Jobs in the Carpenters way says that except the formers there is not a good Tool sent into the Country. Your honors have been by me frequently informed of the badnefs of the Tools in general and yet they are still sent out as bad as ever"

May 13
" Saturday part of last night and all this day a hard gale at North variable at times a point or two each way with a great fall of snow and much drift. A man came from the back of the Island for flour and to bake Bread as did several Indians to get drunk. the men picking oakum. the rest as Yesterday. George Gun under the Surgeons Care. myself very bad with a most severe head ach and inflamed eyes. the Indians too drunk to finish trading"

May 14
" Sunday Wind variable NE terly Divine Service for the day performed by Mr Colen finished trading with the Indians."

May 15
" Monday Warm Cheerful weather wind variable from S by E to WSW the Armourer cleaning musquets Guthrie and 5 men at work on and for the new building one painting it. sent Robert Tennant and Rushland to the french Creek to try for fish and to examine the situation of the Long boat. the woman returned with an old birch Canoe. Bews Jobbing the three taylors at work for trade and one of the men two writing Mr Ballenden and 4 men filling up salt provision Casks with pickle. Robert Sinclair and one man mending a boat. one went to the Deer hedge no luck two Cooking three at work in the gardens three cutting willows to stick pease"

May 16
" Tuesday Wind in the morning SW erly afterwards NE by E fine cheerful weather. all hands employed much the same as yesterday. much Ice drove out of the River this day and much is still lodged on the south shore, flatts and Islands"

May 17
" Wednesday A brisk gale at SE clear fine weather. trusted the Indians that came here this day seven nights having now traded all and paid all I find the whole to be 690 made beaver in which 350 Marten skins. very little alteration in the mens employ. no luck at the deer hedge nor any geese flying. feel a great lofs for a good boat builder for tho' Sinclair is willing to do what he can yet he is so exceeding slow that much time is lost for want of the boats being properly repaired. received 130 lbs of venison"

May 18
" Thursday Wind in the morning SE and blew fresh in the afternoon the wind NE blew hard and cold the day mostly clear. Guthrie and Ballenden fitting up the new trading room. four men planing boards for it. Armourer and Bews weather boarding the roof of the Smith and Armourer Shop. Cooper Jobbing three taylors at work for the men and trade sent one to the Deer hedge no luck took a boat and four men to tenshilling Creek got 50 lbs of fine fish. Tennant and his Partner returned with 4 lbs of fish and 5 geese three writing two Cooking four out a hunting the rest at work in the gardens and other necefsary Jobs great quantities of Ice still lodged on the flatts south shore and Islands. a few geese flew to'day"

May 19
" Friday Wind E by S variable to ENE the morning warm the Afternoon cloudy and cold. all the tradesmen employed as Yesterday. removed several articles of trading goods into the new trading room. went again to tenshilling Creek got 39 lbs of good fish. ordered the 4 men at the back of the Island to bring their things home"

May 20
" Saturday Light Airs from NE dark heavy clouds came from the SW which brings on rain without altering the wind. the English hunters came from the back of this? Island my reason for sending for them home is? that I found the Indians would not hunt cheerfully whilst they had Persons by them whom they are pleased to wish? away. most of the tradesmen employed as yesterday. many of the men employed in getting Tobbacco Flour Oatmeal and Furs into the new building. Received 150 lbs of good venison. several Indians took Powder to hunt geese to'day. no luck at the deer hedge"

May 21
" Sunday Wind SW and moderate weather. five Canoes of Indians went up the river to hunt deer. Divine Service for the day. at six this Evening the wind came to NE and cold weather"

May 22
" Monday Wind NE by E variable Eastward. in the afternoon very cold. Wm Guthrie and one man fitting up the new trading room. four men planing and splitting boards. the Armourer cleaning musquets. Bews weather boarding the roof of his shop. the Cooper Jobbing. three taylors at work for the men and trade. Robert Sinclair repairing a boat. myself and 4 men a fishing got 20 lbs of fish set 3 nets. Mefs Ballanden and Colen with the rest (except the Cook) removing and stowing Provisions, Stores and trading goods into the new building. Received 340 lbs of fine venison. a great help as very few geese are to be got. Sent James Batt and Edward Tomison to the french creek to fish and hunt"

May 23
" Tuesday Wind SW very hot weather several Small ? seen to'day. all the tradesmen employed as Yesterday. Mefs Ballanden and Colen with all the spare hands getting beef, Brandy &c out of the ground where it was buried last fall and storing them away. at 3 PM took the boat to tenshilling Creek got 37 lbs of fine fish"

May 24
" Wednesday Wind WSW exceeding fine weather. the Officers and men employed much the same as yesterday received 61 lbs of fish from tenshilling Creek. 61 lbs of fish rec'd from James Batt and partner 19 lbs of fish. an Indian brought 90 lbs of venison"

May 25
" Thursday A brisk gale all this day untill 2 PM at SW by W then NE the weather Sultry till the evening when raw cold with rain and hail. All the tradesmen employed with their afsistants employed in their several callings. the rest till 4 PM (when I took 4 of them to tenshilling Creek where I propose to Sleep) with Mefs Colen and Ballanden storing goods in the new bulding and other necefsary Jobs. received 128 lbs venison"

May 26
" Friday All last night and the most part of this day a hard gale at NNE with rain hail and foggy weather and very cold. returned from tenshilling Creek with 41 lbs of fish. got a buck deer from the hedge but the sultry weather of yesterday had spoiled it. however it served the hogs. Armourer cleaning musquets Cooper Jobbing Guthrie and John Ballanden make boxes for various articles of trading goods. Bews making staples for rafting timber 3 taylors at work for trade and the men. 4 men planing boards two Cooking three writing the rest variously employed"

May 27
" Saturday Wind E by S a little variable each way the weather moderate. the men employed much the same as Yesterday. Mefs Colen and Ballenden with the spare hands afsisting getting Indians furrs into the House. fourteen Canoes of various Indians arriving this day a few of them well gooded. the rest middlingly so. sent James Batt and Edward Tomison to tenshilling Creek to bring home what fish may be caught in the netts got 18 lbs. drefsed 3 Captains and 3 Lieutenants. Received from them 20 lbs of Sturgeon and two beaver a moose nose and a few Eggs. all the goose hunters came to the House the geese being gone"

May 28
" Sunday Wind SW erly and part of the day blew a stiff gale with some rain and heavy clouds to the SW. 13 Canoes of North River and home Indians came to trade poorly gooded. rigged one Captain one Lieutenant and Indian young lads. all the geese and ducks killed this spring amount to (the ducks being turned into or made into geese) no more than 317 a dear hunt which is ever the case when geese are scarce. The Indians as usual very drunk and continually bauling for Brandy. Received 30 lbs of Beaver"

May 29
" Monday Wind Westerly blows fresh the weather coolish. traded with several of the Indians whom I am sorry to say are except one or two very badly gooded indeed the furs of many appear's to be the refuse of the Canadian traders. from two of the Captains only one Martin skin whole but bad and one without a tail was received as also but one half parchment beaver from a man that had been made a Captain last year. It is my duty to remark that this man brought a fine afsortment of goods last year that he promised great things but performed nothing. This will be the case, strive what we can, untill the Honourable Hudson Bay Company Charterial rights to this Country are vindicated? and Interlopers terrified from the manifest encroachments made by those who acknowledge they have no rights to the ground they occaisionally occupy. Your Honor's Servants at the House were employed as follows. the Armourer mending Indian Guns. Cooper Jobbing. Wm Guthrie and John Ballanden at work on fixtures &c for the new shed. four men planing boards one painting the Shed. Bews Jobbing three taylors at work for trade the rest variously employed. Received 27 lbs of fish from tenshilling Creek also 15 lbs of Beaver flesh"

May 30
" Tuesday A stiff gale a little variable from ESE each way the day part Clear part Cloudy and to us very warm. more of the Indians traded their goods as bad as yesterday Viz. small 3 quarter stage beaver old half worn Coat and Scrap beaver a very few Otters and no martins. twelve men preparing for the woods to raft timber. Sent Batt and Tomison to look after the netts at tenshilling Creek. the rest employed much the same as Yesterday. no luck at the deer hedge. Myself too old to stay long above ground"

May 31
" Wednesday Wind in the morning SW till 6 OClock and exceedingly hot till 2 PM after 6 Light Airs variable untill 11 PM when the wind Settled at NE by E and blew a stiff gale with thunder lightning and heavy rain. Muskeetos somewhat troublesome in the morning the evening cold. all the Indians of Saturday went away some of them not well pleased as the North river Indians did not chuse to trade while they stayed, consequently they were disappointed in the rich? harvest? they hoped to obtain by plundering (in their usual ? ? ?) the home Indians who dare not refuse them what goods they may take a fancy too. Armourer mending guns. Cooper making? Kegs. Guthrie and John Ballanden framing? stairs and rails to the new building. two at the pit saw Bews Jobbing three taylors at work for trade two at work in the garden two at tenshilling Creek Sent 12 men to raft home timber two to bring the boats? back? traded about 500 beaver with the north river and home Indians the latter are finely gooded. Received hundred and odd martins from them they have not yet finished trading being too eager to get drunk as I believe they have not been near the Canadians. gave each man a laced Coat some Brandy &c as per Expence book as also to the women presents of various articles. received 29 lbs of fish"

June 1 1786
" Thursday all last night and this day a hard gale variable from E by N to NNE with very heavy rain all hands variously employed within doors. received 38 lbs of venison from the Hedge"

June 2
" Friday Wind variable NE erly the weather part Clear part cloudy and cold with rain at times. Sent James Batt and Edward Tomison to look at the netts and to lay out all night. one man slinging Kegs for inland. the rest employed the same as Yesterday. Received a small deer from the hedge but it was only fitt for the Hogs. the man that went to the hedge yesterday mifsed seeing it through carelefsnefs. all the Ice gone of the flats above the House as also this, and the south shore a mile above it but much still lodged on the mile sand and both shores beyond that distance"

June 3
" Saturday A hard gale at NNE cold flying foggs with some snow. served out provisions and did sundry other duties. two Canoes came to trade very poorly gooded, one of them a home Indian. they have certainly traded with the Canadians. James Batt and partner brought 29 lbs of fish and went off to set more nets. I am informed 5 Canoes will be here soon. in the evening 7 Canoes of North river Indians arrived seemingly poorly gooded. four men came from the woods to bake bread"

June 4
" Sunday Wind variable from N by E to SE by E dark heavy weather with rain in small showers. gave the Captain of yesterday his suit of Cloaths with the accustomary presents and traded a little Brandy with him and some of the Indians that came with him. the wooders returned to their Tents"

June 5
" Monday a hard gale at NE with flying fogs and very cold. some rain last night. the Indians traded? a few? furs? but are to drunk and eager for Liquor to finish trading. Guthrie and John Ballanden fixing a flight of steps to the new building. two sawing boards &c three taylors at work on Captains Coats and for the men. one Cooking one tending the Cattle one under the Surgeons care. Mefs Ballanden Colen and myself, the Armourer, Cooper and smith all? are? re? packing parchment beaver and deer skins. the beaver ? ?ed is 25 Bundles of whole and half ditto the deer skins amount to 180 made Beaver"

June 6
" Tuesday A fresh gale at NNE very cold dark heavy weather. traded with the Indians of saturday who are better gooded than I expected. three of the Indians that came? in? with the home guard have yet some furrs to trade but do not seem willing to do so untill all the Indians? of? yesterday? have? gone. trusted several home Indians a few things? ? ? went away directly. Armourer mending Indian Guns Guthrie and Jn Ballanden at work on rails for the new? building? two at the pitsaw three taylors at work for the men and trade the rest asisting in the warehouse and packing made beaver in small furs in which 1266 martins. the Coat beaver is too wet to pack and the weather is too damp to dry it"

June 7
" Wednesday Wind NE erly with small snow and hail. the weather very cold. all the uplanders but one family went away as did one Canoe of home Indians. all the rest except 4 Widows and 7 Children (Orphans) preparing to go away to morrow. sent a boat with two men to afsist in getting the timber down to morrow. Wm Sinclair under the Surgeons Care"

June 8
" Thursday Light Airs variable from W by N to NNW the weather part Clear part Cloudy not so cold as Yesterday. All the home Indians except the widows and Orphans mentioned yesterday. Received 677 lbs of Venison with 40 Tongues. Batt and partner returned, no luck. the 12 wooders with the two men I sent to afsist them returned with the timber the number of which will be Ascertained as soon as got on the Bank. having found that most of the seeds sowed are by the badnefs of the weather rotted in the Ground shall be forced to sow more. Mr Colen's middle finger of his right hand very bad"

June 9
" Wind NNE variable a little both ways the weather cold part Clear part Cloudy. 23 men getting the wood up the bank which is much of it small for Timber altho' some are fine sticks. Guthrie Jn Ballanden Robert Sinclair opening a pafsage from my room to the new building and closing that which led to the lower part of the House. Wm Sinclair under the Surgeons Care. the Cooper Jobbing two writing two Cooking sent two men to tenshilling Creek to look at the nets nothing from them, or the hedge. Matthew Barrow off duty it being said he is again insane"

June 10
" Saturday Some snow last night the wind to'day continues NNE cloudy weather and for the time of year cold. 26 men getting timber up the bank, the rest employed much the same as Yesterday. got all the floats up the bank but two and then served out flour &c"

June 11
" Sunday Wind NE erly the weather for the time of year cold. took a boat and 4 men to tenshilling Creek got only 2 fish weight 6 lbs and a fine mefs of greens? soon? after my return four Indian men two women home guards? came with 290 lbs of dryed and beat venison 30 lbs of fat? and a few deer skins. they traded directly and went away. much Ice is still on the south Shore and very much on? the? Islands above the mile sand. many whales in the river? this day. But not having a proper boat to attempt hooking? them we can be only Spectators of them coming in and going out of the River."

June 12
" Monday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday tho not quite so cold in the morning. as? all the Timber up the bank the number of peices great and small about five hundred afterward filled? the ? packed two Bundles of deer skins and cleaned? the Plantation. Armourer Jobbing as is Bews. Guthrie and John Ballanden removing fixtures to more commodious situations than where they were obliged to be first placed. one taylor at work for the men two at work for trade Mr Colen with two men drawing of Brandy for Inland. Wm Sinclair under the Surgeons care. Gilbert Duncan of no service. two Cooking. Mr Colens finger in a very bad way"

June 13
" Tuesday a fine gale variable NE erly the weather part clear part cloudy and for the Season of the year cold. took a boat and 4 men to tenshilling Creek and above a fishing got 32 lbs of Jack &c Ten men preparing for the woods to raft home firewood. Matthew Barrow hath for the three last past days shewn evident marks of insanity. Henry Garrock your Honors patroon at the woods (says) that the man when at the woods gave no bad Language and promised to do what was ordered but very seldom performs his promises and in general shew'd a very confused mind. the rest of the men employed much the same as yesterday. In the afternoon a thick fog in the effing"

June 14
" Wednesday In the morning light airs variable from South to SE by E at ten AM the wind settled at SE blew fresh and cold. ten men went off to raft home firewood with? two to bring the boats back. we are greatly distrefsed for a strong rafting boat nor have we a boat now at the House fit for whaleing or to do anything where expedition is required such as fetching Indians acrofs the River or setting beacons. Mr Colen James Batt and one man overhauling the shoes sent from England find many of them very bad which must be sent home by the next Ship with many other articles of trading goods. Mr Ballanden with one of the men overhauling the log tent and warehouse. Guthrie Jn Ballanden and Robert Sinclair at Carpenters work to make the officers Cabins more convenient. four men at the pitsaw the rest Jobbing. Duncan of no use nor any luck at the deer hedge. sent two Indians to examine the netts not having a boat to go ourselves. Bews and the Cooper Jobbing the Armourer not well one tending the Cattle and one Cooking two Indians came over the River with 200 lbs of venison & 18 lbs of fish to day"

June 15
" Thursday Wind variable from NE to E by S clear warm weather. Bull dogs numerous muskatoes middling. All hands employed as Yesterday 13 lbs of fish from the netts and 240 lbs of venison from two Indians. the Indians of Yesterday went away by whom I sent Brandy and Tobacco to sundry old Indians as entered in the Expence Book. An Indian man came in with his family very lame & they are four? in Number"

June 16
" Friday A hard gale at ESE which began at 6? AM and very cold for the time of year. too bad weather to go to? the? netts. the Indians of Yesterday went away gave them ? Brandy and tobacco to encourage them to bring in? more? provisions. The Armourer and Smith Jobbing Wm Guthrie Robert Sinclair and John Ballanden at work for and fitting? up? Cabbins for the reception of the Surgeon and putting? officers in? the late trading room. Mr Colen of great service ? ? work men instructions for the speedy execution? of orders?. the Cooper trimming rundlets three grinding Oatmeal two? taylors at work for trade and the men. four men Viz. Peter Sebbeston John Linklater Edward Brown and William Groundwater sawing boards and planks. one making a well? one Cooking two writing ten at the woods one of no service one tending the Cattle &c one pealing? sticks for beacons. the few others doing sundry Jobs"

June 17
" Saturday A very hard gale all last Night and to day at E by N and ENE with flying fogs and cold cloudy weather till between 12 and 1 Oclock when the Sun shone bright. the men employed as yesterday the evening was as cold and cloudy as the morning and the gale rather increased. a very small boat the Size of a common Canoe formerly belonging to the Severn Sloop sunk part of her stern being hauled out by the violence of the Surge. Being obliged to moor the little boat that Mr Jacobs was by your Honors goodnefs some years since favoured with and the long boat being too heavy to be laid near the Shore or to be trusted at moorings in a hard gale of wind and the only boat we have proper for stoning? should an accident happen to Indian or English in crofsing the River the unhappy persons must perish for want of Afsistance therefore I humbly hope? your Honors will comply with the Indent of boats in particular"

June 18
" Sunday All the last Night it blew exceeding hard at NE the weather foggy cold and cloudy to day the wind somewhat abated and the Sun frequently appear'd in the openings between the flying clouds. the Divine Service was performed by Mr Colen as I cannot read or write long with out having my eyes surcharged with water, a great misfortune to one so fond of reading. the Indians that came in the 15 Instant very lame so that we have now fifteen Indians to feed. the greatest number of whom are thriving boys and girls and bid fair to repeople this dismally depopulated Country"

June 19
" Monday Light Airs Eerly till 3 PM when it blew fresh the weather very fine. The Armourer mounting a Powder horn for the Chief. The Cooper and Smith Jobbing one Taylor making a nett two at work for trade and the men. Guthrie and Ballanden fitting up Cabbins under the Direction of Mr Colen. Robert Sinclair repairing a wooden Canoe four men sawing plank and boards myself took a boat with 6 men to get drift wood. got a good deal with about 300 lbs of old Iron from the lower battery. ten men at the woods. one writing the rest variously employed. in the afternoon took a boat to look at the netts and set more intending to lay at tenshilling Creek. Muskatoes this evening till Eleven at night exceedingly Troublesome. at Midnight it began to freeze"

June 20
" Tuesday Froze hard for three hours when the wind came to SW and soon after it grew warm and then Muskatoes and Bull dogs exceeding troublesome. in the evening returned to the House with 64 lbs of good fish the men at home employed much the same as Yesterday. four Indians came in with 21 heads 21 Tongues and 42 joints of venison for all weighing heads and tongues included 771 lbs which will be traded to morrow it is fine meat and to encourage the natives to bring in more while it is green, shall send some Brandy and Tobacco to the families of the above Indians, as it is bought cheap Viz. 30 lbs for a beaver. Whales numerous in the river no boats fit to kill them we are idle Spectators of them as mentioned in the former part of this months Journals"

June 21
" Wednesday A fresh gale at SW the weather sometimes Clear and often cloudy. three men at work on netts. Guthrie and three three men planing boards Sinclair mending a Canoe one painting the back of the new building. Cooper and three men salting venison under the inspection of Mr John Ballanden. two taylors at work for the men the rest as Yesterday traded the Indians venison and sent presents to their families as per Expence book. It blows too hard for them to go away to night. they hunting on the Eastern shore"

June 22
" Thursday wind variable from SW to ENE from thence to ESE with heavy rain at times till 2 PM when drifsling rain and wet unwholesome foggs. Musketoes very numerous and consequently very troublesome. All hands employed much the same as Yesterday till 4 PM when I took a boat and 4 men to overhaul the netts got 49 lbs of good fish. two Indians brought 130 lbs of fine venison with ten tongues and 3 heads"

June 23
" Friday Wind NE nearly all day with a wet fog and small Rain. the afternoon very cold at half past three this morning sent a boat and four men to afsist the ten men at the woods in bringing the rafts down. at noon Henry Garroch with the rest brought down fifteen good floats. Mr Joseph Colen William Guthrie and 6 men at work for and on Cabbins and petitioning of part of the lower warehouse. Bews making hinges two at work on fishing netts two taylors at work for the men one writing the rest variously employed the Indians of tuesday and thursday went away. sent two Indians to look at the netts got but 10 lbs of fish"

June 24
" Saturday Exceeding bad weather viz. heavy rains thick fogs very cold and a very hard gale at NNE a little variable each way which sent in a very high and rapid tide that shook the floats of firewood greatly and set some of the wood adrift. got the rest secured as well as pofsible. all the tradesmen employed as yesterday the rest (it being too bad weather to work out of doors) cleaning their Cabbins and mending their Cloaths"

June 25
" Sunday A great flight of Snow last night with a stiff gale at NNE and very cold a very high tide. The men getting the firewood and timber up the bank"

June 26
" Monday Wind N by E blows very fresh the weather cold Mr Colen Guthrie Robert Sinclair John Ballanden and two others at work on the Officers Cabbins the rest till nine OClock AM carrying firewood up the bank at the above hour I took three men in a boat with me to tenshilling Creek and a mile above it to overhaul the netts found them exceeding foul. in the afternoon the gale encreased a very large body of Ice appeared in the offing and it was exceeding cold, it rained hailed and snowed in the night alternately the whole of it which induced us to stay where we was than venture over it in a small little old boat which if she struck a stone would sink instantly. about eleven OClock at night two Indians came to the Tent with a Beaver Coat a Blanket some Bread Cheese beer and a bottle of Brandy very humanly sent me by Mefs Ballanden and Colen whom on this as every other occaision have shewn themselves ready to give me every afsistance and pay me the attention due to my age and Station a behaviour diametrically opposite to that of the Surgeon got a deer from the hedge weight 130 lbs"

June 27
" Tuesday The People employed as yesterday the gale increased greatly the weather still the same or rather worse. the Ice in the offing came down in in a strong Closed body which renders the air piercing cold. I am forced to stay another night at the Tent. a very remarkable high tide and a great flood from Inland"

June 28
" Wednesday Wind North and greatly abated the weather very cloudy cold and in the evening foggy. when the tide began to flow went to the netts took up all but two to clean them. got this day and the two preceding 50 lbs of fine fish 24 lbs of which we ate at the tent. while we were overhauling the netts a boat sent from the House brought a further Supply of bread cheese and beer. the men at home employed as follows. The Carpenter and afsistants as on monday. The Sawyers sawing boards two men brewing the rest washng and coiling rafting ropes cleaning the Plantation and other necefsary Jobs. in the afternoon at one O'Clock I got to the house all well. ordered the Patroon to get ready to go to the woods to morrow to float more firewood. He made a Complaint to me that George Gun was always grumbling at working so hard as he called it that he refused to obey orders used very abusive Language and set a very bad example to the rest of your honors Servants. he is certainly a heavy lazy fellow and would most certainly have been sent back long since had it not been for the Consideration that his Father lost his life in your Service. four Indians in two Canoes brought 760 lbs of fine venison 27 tongues ten of which split and ten lbs of fat. traded with them directly and sent them away sent a little brandy and tobacco to old men"

June 29
" Thursday Wind variable from W by N to South fine cheerful weather. Sent Henry Garroch and nine men to the woods and two to bring the boat back. we greatly feel the want of a strong boat fitt for rafting and whaleing greatly. two men Cleaning fishing netts one repairing the deer hedge and the rest as Yesterday. in the evening our men returned with the boat. the Indians that came in lame the 15th Instant being mostly recovered fitted him out to go up the river to hunt what he can find. a great part of the Ice mentioned to be in the offing came into this River's mouth within two miles and one half of the Factory the main body extends from the north shore of the north river? quite acrofs to high water mark on the Eastern shore. how far it extends to Sea cannot be ascertained as we cannot see water beyond it with our best glafses. Indeed it is an awfull sight and put's us in mind of the Ships non arrival"

June 30
" Friday a fine gale at SW till 3 PM when light airs at NE mild pleasant weather. all the tradesmen employed at their several callings took a boat to sett some netts got 56 lbs of fine fish the rest of the men employed in sundry necefsary duties"

July 1 1786
" Saturday A fine Breeze at West pleasant weather. At 5 AM Mr Wm Tomison Mr Robert Longmoor and Thirty five men arrived from Inland. the trade amounts to ? made beaver. am informed an Indian Captain with several Canoes will be soon down with furrs traded inland but have nothing of their own to trade. the men at the house doing very little which is ever the case when your Honors inland Servants first come down. arrived also with the above two Indian men five women and five Children. I received a letter from Mr Tomison which as it is entered in the Correspondence book with my answer to it. I shall not trouble your honors with any comments on it. I shall only observe that Mr Tomison absolutely refused to receive my letter altho' informed it contained matters of public Concern, that his behaviour was exceedingly haughty and arrogant. But as I hope Mr Colen will give you gentlemen an impartial account of the whole shall drop the affair for the Present. Mr Longmoor made me a heavy Complaint of the Ill Usage he hath received this winter from Mr Tomison but he not having finished his narrative must refer it to another opportunity"

July 2
" Sunday Wind NW and blows fresh fine pleasant weather. two Canoes six Indians came from the Eastward with 639 lbs venison 29 lbs of which dried Fat 28 lbs"

July 3
" Monday Wind variable NE erly the weather middlingly clear and neither hott or cold. Guthrie with the rest of the tradesmen at work in their various Callings the rest variously employed some on inland affairs and some on factory duties. Henry Garroch came from the woods to inform the land fresh in the river was so great he could not tow the floats of firewood acrofs the River but must have an anchor to warp them which he got and desired I would send him more help on wednesday evening. the Indians of Yesterday went away and the man I sent to hunt and fish on the 29th Instant returned with only a small deer and one Methy the weight of the deer 63 lbs. employed several Indians to make netts for fishing"

July 4
" Tuesday Wind variable NE erly the weather exceeding pleasant. Guthrie and 3 men employed in erecting a Cabbin for Mr Ballanden the rest cheifly employed on inland affairs. I am sorry to inform your honors I can receive no information from Mr Tomison in regard to the necefsary measures to be persued for the benefit of your affairs inland. for the measures I am Obliged to persue to gain proper intelligence I humbly refer you to my letter of this day's date in the Correspondence book directed to Mefs Ballanden and Colen. 7 lbs of fish from the netts"

July 5
" Wednesday Light airs variable all round the Compafs the weather clearish cool and pleasant. Sent a boat and five men to afsist in bringing down the rafts. the Carpenter and Afsistants with the Armourer and Smith employed in their several callings as is the Cooper the rest taking goods up out of your honors warehouse packing goods for inland and other necefsary duties"

July 6
" Thursday Wind NE thick heavy weather with drizling rain fog and cold. Henry Garroch with the men I sent to afsist him came down with ten floats of firewood the Carpenter at work on Cabbins four taylors at work for the men the Cooper making Cags the rest variously employed on Inland affairs Cooking and other necefsary duties
Received 16 lbs of fish"

July 7
" Friday heavy dark Clouded weather very cold Wind North some sleet and at times a wet fog. 20 men getting the firewood up the bank, the rest as Yesterday. at half past three AM five Canoes of Indians arrived with the furrs intrusted to their care by Mr Tomison one of the Indian men that had four Bundles left them and returned, the Bundles were brought to the House by the Indian Leader. gave Coats &c to five of the Indian Men and somewhat extra to the Leader for taking care of the four Deserted Bundles"

July 8
" Saturday All last night and to day a hard gale at NNE with much rain and excefsive cold weather for the time of year. no working out of doors and most of the men too much Enibriated to do much within. the Indians very quiet because fast asleep to wear off the effects of their last debauch and be able to go through another which they will most certainly force me to give them or threaten never to afsist your Servants again. And then it would be said by SOME, I by denying them a little liquor drove them from your Honors Interest. The two preceding years I wanted a Counsellor a friend a Monitor thank god I am in no distrefs on that account NOW, or your old and let me add well intentioned Servant might have died broken hearted and his memory suffered by foul detraction which would have made many of my dear friends in England unhappy in the extreme"

July 9
" Sunday Wind NE blew fresh in the morning much lefs wind in the afternoon the weather cold and cloudy. some little businefs done in inland affairs. gave the upland Indians a little brandy bread and prunes and the few home Indians a little Tobacco and Biscuit. Received by two Indians whom I sent to examine the netts 16 lbs of fish"

July 10
" Monday variable winds from West to NE and back again the weather part Clear and part Cloudy and tho' cold yet the Muskatoes are somewhat troublesome. Mr Ballanden and Colen with Mr Tomison and several men packing goods for Inland. Six men tayloring for the men. 21 persons carrying firewood up the bank the rest variously and necefsaryly employed"

July 11
" Tuesday All last night and to'day till noon much rain the wind Easterly in the afternoon it cleared up when myself with Mefs Ballanden and Colen with several of the men packed Inland furrs. the rest packing goods for Inland, grinding Oatmeal, brewing and other necefsary Jobs"

july 12
" Wednesday Sultry weather with the wind at SSW till 3 PM with heavy flying Clouds. in the evening the wind came to NNE with rain thunder and lightning Received 16 lbs of dryed meat and 10 lbs of fish from the Indians who came acrofs the River and went away directly"

July 13
" Thursday dark heavy weather with light flying fogs the men employed much the same as Yesterday. three Canoes of home Indians came in with deer skins dryed venison &c Mr William Tomison having positively declared that he would not return inland I demanded his Journals to be directly delivered to me that I might make up my mind in regard to the properest methods to be persued to promote your honors Interest. this demand was Complyed with tho' before obstinately refused. his words were as delivered to Mefs Colen and Ballanden (these) if Mr Marten still insists on his having my journal he shall have them but that Instant I will have no more to do with upland affairs and I will insist on going to England at Shiptime. I knew your honors wished to keep him in that employ which consideration only made me at that time relinquish the perusal of them when in the warmth of altercation on wednesday I dropped the exprefsion'I do not think you understand the Bible' He Mr Tomison swore he would not return inland and still strictly adheres to that Declaration notwithstanding I owned the Exprefsion to be wrong and offered to ask his pardon publicly before the men But by what I can learn his intention before he came down was to return no more. A large Number of Martin Skins was conveyed into his Cabin which were not produced till he was positively afsured I would not permit any furrs to be such? as? sent to England as Trappings and was ? to prevent every illicit practice in my Power. I am Convinced that had not Mr Joseph Colen been here I should have been treated by him (Mr Tomison and the Surgeon with the utmost Insolence and that a great number of Skins would have been secreted to be smuggled to England"

July 14
" Wind in the morning NE the weather cold in the afternoon the wind East a light breeze and the weather much warmer. traded with the Indians of Yesterday 336 lbs of venison part dryed and part beat into thuhigan with 26 lbs of Fat part of which was immediately given to the upland Indians and a great part served to your honors Servants. Mr Tomison still keeping his resolution of not returning inland. I called a council to deliberate on the Question who is the properest person to have the superintendance of inland affairs? [his question mark] at the Council I desired Mr Colen to attend whose advice and afsistance on many occaisions has been of Singular Service to me. Mr Robert Longmore was the Person pitched on and Malcolm Rofs to supply the place of Mr Longmore in exploring the Churchill track inland. Your Honor's Servants declared they would obey Mr Longmore as they had done Mr Tomison and seemed pleased that Mr Longmore was to return with them The upland Indian Leader made application to me for Brandy to Drink with the Indians that traded this morning. with this Request I was obliged to Comply tho' he and his people had eight beaver in Liquor from me yesterday. All most all the men employed on inland duties"

July 15
" Saturday Wind at 5 PM SW at 7 ? NW at Noon NE much rain in the night and part of the morning the rest of the day flying clouds and light showers the weather more like November in England. the Indians of Yesterday went away sent a little brandy and Tobacco to Old men by them. All jhands employed on inland affairs during this week much Ice at high water hath appeared in the offing"

July 16
" Sunday Wind NE the weather as to cold moderate. smoaked with the Indians Captain his Lieutenant and their young men. made the Captain a present of a handsome Calumet and I hope he will depart well pleased notwithstanding he and his Lieutenant appear'd after smoaking discontented? gloomy and saucy soon after Mr Longmoor informed me that he suspected Mr Wm Tomison had promised him a present with which I was not informed and which he thought was a gun to each of them besides their Cloathing and many other articles usually given them. On which I prefsented a gun to each which restored good humour and smiling Countenances took place. It is strange Mr Tomison will not Communicate to me such Communications as are absolutely necefsary to promote your honors Interest. This day (the sixteenth since the arrival of your Servants from Inland) I was permitted to see two scraps of Paper containing Fallacious accounts of goods remaining Inland both which I returned as Inadmifsable and demanded a Correct and faithfull account. I am informed that Mr Tomison and Mr Robinson were in close Conversation the greatest part of the last night. this Information by Mr Longmoor whom as well as myself know they would both throw every obstacle in the way to prevent the Sucefs which I hope will attend the present measures persued for your Honors Interest. several of the men have Complained of having applied to the Surgeon for Medicines and Salve which he hath Constantly neglected to give them altho' the Persons had my Consent for such applications"

July 17
" Monday Wind in the morning SW with flying clouds in the afternoon the wind NE with a thin haze. The tradesmen employed in their several callings the rest variously employed on Inland affairs. the Indians very drunk and consequently very troublesome. It is impofsible for me to prevent them from getting Liquor as I cannot be up night and day and Indeed your honors Servants are Obliged to give them a little occaisionally to form a friendship with them or keep an old one up"

July 18
" Tuesday In the morning a light breeze at ENE the weather hazy and somewhat cloudy. sent a boat to take up all the netts they being very foul. saw a smoke at the french Creek ordered the above boat on its return to enquire the occaision of the smoke. am Informed several home Indians are there and will be over to morrow. At noon the Indian Captain his Lieutenant and their young men after receiving the usual departing presents and being paid in part for taking up 20 Bundles of European goods for Cumberland House. sett of in five Canoes for that Settlement And I am happy to say they went off well pleased"

July 19
" Wednesday Light Airs at NE much Ice in sight the weather sultry in the shade and to Leeward yet cool in open places. Early this morning Our Eastern home Indians came over with deer skins and dryed meat which I shall trade as fast as pofsible. At present Myself with Mefs Ballanden and Colen are fully employed on inland affairs as are most of your honors Servants. I am informed Mr William Tomison has been weak? enough to speak to your honors apprentice David Thompson as follows" You need not take Notice -- But when you get to the house you had better go and ask advice from George Hudson how to ? ? yourself" I shall make no comment on the above speach? but as David Thompson copies my Journal the truth of cannot be doubted. This afternoon the Indians brot? deer skins dryed meat and fatt but as they? will not finish to day I shall not set down the quantity until they have done it. this day received a note from Mr Tomison informing me Isaac Batt desired to return to England next year. having prepared my Self some Chalybeate Wine which I have used for some time I am greatly recovered in strength and appetite"

July 20
" Thursday Variable wind from ? round to NW and from thence? to N by ? and back again to W. in the middle of the day thunder Muskatoes very numerous &? troublesome. finished trading with the Indians 384 lbs of dryed meat 24 lbs of Fatt 27 lbs of Pomicon and 60 ducks. the Pomicon is Fatt and beat meat mix'd together and is charged in the Provision book as Venison. Finished all the Inland affairs. This day I was informed by some of your Honors Inland Servants that when they spoke to him in my praise or said they would complain to me of his behavior he would say DAMN Old Marten and you may tell him so when I get to England with the Gentlemen I shall be as much his Master as he is now Yours. Mr Longmoor informed me Mr Tomison wanted the Men to sign a paper against me which the? ? refused. as Mr Longmoor hath wrote to Your Honors an account of the Usuage he received when Inland shall say nothing on that head."

July 21
" Friday Wind variable from W to N heavy dark weather small showers of rain. At half past one OClock PM eight canoes conducted by twenty three of your Honors servants and three Women sett off for inland. the Steersmen are Robert Davis Andrew Corrigal James Banks James Tate James Gray Magnus Annell George Rofs and Edward Wishart. the Taylors not having yet finished the necefsarys for the other Servants and Mr Longmoors papers not being yet compleated occationed by the incorrectnefs of Mr Tomisons accounts and his delays in giving any at all is the reason why the rest must stay until tomorrow. I have not yet been permitted to examine the Inland accounts"

July 22
" Saturday Light airs at North cloudy heavy weather. At five OClock PM? Mr Longmoor? with nine Canoes sett off for Inland the Steersmen are Mr Longmoor Magnus Twatt James Spence Senior James Spence Junior James Sandison Wm Flett? Senior Mitchell? Oman James Morrowick and an Indian with James Batt. in all twenty five ? with five Women and ? Indians ? ? Number of Europeans in your Honors inland Service is at present fifty nine persons may? God protect? them Amen. The made beaver in goods taken by them is 11030? paid two Indians to go to Churchill with Malchom Rofs
I cannot help informing you Gentlemen that this day Mr Tomison had the Effrontery to give directions to some of the Men before my face whom I had ordered to do a job on which I informed him he must not act the Master here, that all orders for your Servants must proceed from the Chief, that he must consider himself subordinate to that Chief, who was resolved to support the dignity of that station to which you have appointed him. he had declared openly before that he would not ask me leave to take any man Inland, said if I would not raise their Wages he would which Mr Colen said would be taking the Command out of my hands - Sent several Indians a hunting"

July 23
" Sunday A Brisk gale at SW by W the weather part clear part cloudy. At five OClock PM George Rofs and James Morrowick came to the House with Abraham Melvin who declared he could not proceed in going up. With some persuasion and promises I prevailed on Magnus Flett to return with them he beged of me to desire Mr Longmore would employ him in the House or boat build'g way as much as pofsible ? for that last year he was too much employed in hard journeys to bring in provisions and prevented from doing the boat building businefs for which he consented to go up. I promised him to write to Mr Longmoor and that I would inform your Honors his ready Compliance was of great service to you Inland."

July 24
" Monday Wind variable from ? round to N with frequent showers of Rain. At 7 AM George Rofs James Morrowick and Magnus Flett set off to joyn Mr Longmoor. got a packet ready for Churchill but the weather being rainy and the wind ? to the North prevents the men from setting off this afternoon ? had the misfortune to drive a nail through his foot? the armourer cleaning guns Guthrie Brown? Sinclair? and John Linklater hewing Timber & sawing boards Bews jobbing? Cooper mending? of Rundlets. Mr Ballanden and two men setting things to ? on the warehouse? Melvin not well Charles Isham not well Duncan of no service one at work in the garden one tending the Cattle two breaking Lime stones. ? ? the landing we are 17 in Number yet we cannot spare more than ? men to go a stoning which are not sufficient to Man the Longboat as the ? ? ?
Officers          Petty ?
Mefs Marten     2 Sawyers
     Ballanden    2 Taylors
    Robinson    Mens Cook
    Tomison     Cattle tender
    Colen       3 under the Surgeon
Petty? Cook      John Jennings?
Armourer       Chiefs Servant
Cooper        James Smith to old
Smith          ?
Carpentr
?
3 Remains only and will be soon wanted to cutt grafs and many other necefsary duties that cannot be done in the Winter months for Buoys & Beacons must be laid and sett more firewood got to the House poplar cut for the Ship &c &c &c"

July 25
" Tuesday wind North most part of the day in which the sun seldom made his appearance the weather being rainy and foggy. the men employed much the same as yesterday. Malchom Rofs very lame. received 37 geese and 47 ducks from Indians"

July 26
" Wednesday A fresh gale till noon at NNE then light rain the weather moderate. Muskatoes too numerous to work much. took a boat and four? Men up the River & sett five netts for fish got five pounds. Duncan Malchom Rofs & George Gun not well"

July 27
" Thursday Variable wind from SSW to E by ? the weather in the Sea? moist? Sultry? in the wind finely? moderate. Guthrie and one man at work on a stop? for Five fathom sand beacon. Mr Ballanden and two men at work in the warehouse. Robert Sinclair mending a boat two sawing boards Armourer cleaning guns Cooper mending Rundlets three taylors at work for the men three not well Bews jobbing the rest breaking lime stones Cooking tending the Cattle sent three Canoes up the River to ? for fresh provisions Three canoes of North? River Indians came in middlingly gooded Malchom Rofs with two Indians sett off for Churchill Factory"

July 28
" Friday Variable winds from SSW to ? sultry weather with a thick ? traded with the Indians of yesterday about ? made beaver? the men employed much the same as yesterday Muskatoes and Bull dogs very numerous"

July 29
" Saturday A fine breeze at SW the weather sultry? heavy? sent Mr Ballanden and fourteen? men to sett five fathom sand beacon and lay two Buoys after which to go to the fourteens to bring home the powder &c. ? those ? ? and to examine the Long boat and if pofsible bring her to the house. the rest of the Men variously emp'd. The Indians of thursday went away gave them sundry? articles as presents to induce them not to trade with the Canadians. rec'd from the Indians 50 ducks, 20 geese and 56 lbs of venison 8 of the men sent to sett the Beacon &c returned the rest are gone to the fourteens received in the course of this week from the netts 36 lbs of fish"

July 30
" Sunday Wind variable from the SW to NNW the weather very Sultry. Early this morning Mr Ballanden with six men returned with the Powder &c The longboat is too much shattered? by the Ice to be got home till fully repaired which no person here is capable of doing. Mr Colen performed Divine Service"

July 31
" Monday A fine gale at SW and very hot until 3 PM when the wind flew? round to North with thunder lightning and rain? In the morning packed about 376 made Br thank God we have now turned? 5000 ditto. Armourer cleaning guns Bews jobbing the Cooper trimming Rundlets taylors at work for the Men. Carpenter and three men hewing timber and sawing plank. two at work in the garden two Cooking one tending the Cattle three writing the rest not well or breaking lime stones 5 lbs of fish 7 geese 63? ducks to day"

Aug. 1 1786
" Tuesday ? ? ? ? cold weather Wind variable ? ? ? Myself? with Mefs Colen and Ballanden with one ? ? the overhaul two men ? ? ? ? employed as yesterday"

Aug. 2
" Wednesday the wind as yesterday much rain last night with ? ? ? very cold ? ? cold as is? the latter end of November in England. the ? ? ? ?same the men? employed? much? the? same? - This? day for the ? time? ? ? Mr Robinson ? ? ? as follows - Robert? Sinclair? ? ? a cut Leg the ? ? ? pair in? ? the paper was without ? ? Mr Colen Myself and some of the men ? ? ? the sudden ? in the ?"

[ the question marks are because of faded writing, black and white microfilm and a lack of superhuman eyesight ]

Aug. 3
" Thursday A Continuation of cold cloudy weather with flying fog. no alteration in the mens employ. Mr Robinson ? me a paper to that of Yesterday No? Account yet? sent me? by Mr Tomison nor anymore notice taken of me than if I was a dog"

Aug. 4
" Friday A fresh gale at North by E the weather exceeding cold with small ? a thin Flying? ? fog? the Men variously employed within doors. Rec'd another ? of Paper from the Surgeon which I have entered? on this side to show your? Honors? part? of his? behavior under? his own? handwriting"
[ A piece of paper has been glued into the journal, It reads: " The Cooper is not well having strained his Back by lifting of a Cask -
Robt. Sinclair -" Then the Journal continues]

Aug. 5
" Saturday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. Many of your honors servants bad with pains in the Bowels and head achs ? the Surgeon list? mentions ? is under?"
[ Another piece of paper has been glued in. It reads " The Cooper is somewhat better
Robt Sinclair's Wound Is Mending
Wm Guthery is ailing with a Diarrhea" the note ends]
All hands that sre not ailing employed in overhauling provisions &c in the Log Tent. several Indians a hunting but very little succefs"

Aug. 6
" Sunday Wind NNE the weather part clear part cloudy and at times very cold. Divine Service for the day performed by Mr Colen. Myself very far from well yet not ? afsistance is offered to me by Mr Robinson"

Aug. 7
" Monday Wind variable from SW to E ? The morning fine and Clear the afternoon much rain. The Armourer mending guns the Cooper Robert Sinclair George Gun and Jn Linklater bad with diarrhea. Guthrie Edward Brown and William Bews jobbing. ? at work for Mr Tomison as is ? ? Chief, one painting the new warehouse one mending fishing netts. Mr Ballanden with ? Men overhauling the log tent. Gilbert Duncan very ill as is my Self with a severe head ach. two writing the rest variously employed. Several Indians came in with 588 lbs of green venison 309 lbs of dryed and beat ditto 15 lbs Fatt 25 heads 25 tongues they also brought a small Coble sometime since belonging to Churchill she is in good Condition and will be of real service to the fishermen. I gave the Indians who brought it two gallons of Brandy. it was found at YF? River. Mr Colen brought me up the amount of goods in made beaver sent inland since the Closing of our Books last year which is as follows now? sent 11035, in the fall 375 in all 11410 17/30. to day the Surgeons list? mentioned only four persons ailing as before observed yet I was informed that Wm Bews was very Ill with a flux"

Aug. 8
" Tuesday Wind variable from N to W a little sunshine in the morning the rest of the day very heavy and cloudy. The Surgeons list mentions the following persons as ailing with a Diarrhea, Bews Guthrie Garroch Robert Sinclair and John Linklater no other Persons is in it Yet George Gun declared before his face that he was ready to tumble down every minute and Mr Robinson had placed a blister under each ear. When I spoke to Mr Robinson of his neglect in not informing of the Man being unfit for duty - I received nothing but abuse and threats that ? should call one to account for the impofsitions I had been guilty of to himwards. It is true I have frequently desired (nay sometimes I ordered him) to make a daily as part of the Mens health and to examine the Cooks Kettle I have tould him when we were ?ed with our? businefs that it was his duty to afsist. when the Answer I received was - I don't like such Tyrannical doings, you are an Old tyrannical a ashal? you are a Old Lying scoundrel. When Mr Colen tould him he thought he behaved badly Mr Robinson reply'd What are you. you are but a Writer and a time-serving fellow, with many other exprefsions equally ungenerous. All the Men in health are variously employed"

Aug. 9
" Wednesday A fine breeze at SW and very hot untill 2 PM when the wind ? ? to N by E and blew a stiff gale with ? ? fog. Guthrie and 10 men ? the landing? gallery of the new building. Armourer ? guns the Cooper and Smith Jobbing. myself and four men went to sett fishing? netts Mr Ballanden and three men doing various? jobs? in the warehouse. Robert Sinclair George Gun Gilbert Duncan and John Linklater not well two Cooking the rest variously employed. rec'd 8 lbs of fish 350 of Venison with which 10 tongues two heads"

Aug. 10
" Thursday Wind morning ? ? ESE, middle of the day variable all round the Compafs ? at Times very foggy. All the tradesmen overhauling their Tools and stores. the rest variously employed. trusted several home Indians that are going to look South?"

Aug. 11
" Friday Wind SW the weather warm and clear. sent 10 Men to sett the lower or? double headed beacon and lay some buoys which they did. afterwards put down part of the launch with several other jobs"

Aug. 12
" Saturday Wind ENE variable a little to the northward the morning clear and fine the afternoon very cold with much rain. the Armourer cleaing guns Cooper trimming rundlets Guthrie Bews and Linklater doing Sundry jobs in the Carpenters way the Smith jobbing Taylors at work for the Men. At the proper time of tide put down more of the launch. took a boat and four men to the hay Island and there pitched a tent intending to send four men to cut grafs on monday next. in the Afternoon served the Men provisions rec'd 30? lbs of fish"

Aug. 13
" Sunday Variable winds from SSW to WNW with moderate weather. At 10 AM the Severn Sloop was seen well to the Northward near the Point of Marsh she layed to work in but was obliged to run a little out and came to an Anchor about five Miles from the House. before she ran out I had sent a boat to her Afsistance which returned in the afternoon with Mr Wm Falconer whose trade is 5028? made beaver. The two Indians I sent with Malchom Rofs returned with the Churchill packet. On my opening it I saw two letters one in my own hand ? ? the other a coppy of another of mine by Mr Joseph Colen. these letters had been long sought for in vain. Mr Colen had often asked Mr John Ballanden for them who replyed he had not got them which was truth for he had sent them Clandestinely to Mr William Jefferson. As? soon? as I had made the above discovery I sent for Mr Ballanden when the following ? ? pafsed. Pray Mr Ballanden do you know by what Means these two letters got to Churchill? [his question mark] Mr B. what letters Sir ? ? yes Sir they were in my care and I somehow put them into my trunk when I went to Churchill I somehow left them there and now they are come back again. had you Mr Ballanden any right to take my papers and ? ? without any permifsion?[his] - - No Sir - - should you like to be so served?[his] - - No Sir - -Then Sir why did you act so by me?[his] it is a strange proceeding and your Mafters shall know about it. Mr B. I can't help it I thought no harm and am sorry for it -
I cannot help informing you Gentlemen that when many papers were to be coppied particularly the General letter of 1785? they have been unaccountably mislaid for a time and as unaccountably produced afterwards which makes me suspect that the Secrets of this Factory have often been transmitted to Churchill in the same improper manner"

Aug. 14
" Monday Wind variable from SW to NE and moderate part clear but mostly cloudy with rain which hindered us from getting Severn Cargo on shore. All the tradesmen making out their Indents. sent four Men to the hay Island to cut grafs. got the launch compleated and the landing place of the new building much forwarded.
To my great surprise Mr Ballanden came up and contradicted the story he tould me yesterday relative to the papers. his words were Sir, I have looked over my Private memorandums and find I did not carry the letters to Churchill but sent them there. I cannot help observing that when actions of this nature are committed to private Memorandums a ???? - Intelligence must have been agreed on between the partys. Several Indians came in from the ? with furrs and deer skins they say more will be in tomorrow which makes me hope the after package will be pretty considerable."

Aug. 15
" Tuesday A fresh gale at ?? weather part clear and part cloudy and for the time of year very cold. Got the Severn Cargo on shoar and stowed it away so? that? part of the York Factory homeward bound cargo its? ? in a damp situation. several Indians came in with deer skins and venison traded of the latter ? lbs and 10 lbs of Fatt rec'd 41 lbs of fish
Mr Ballanden said this day it was not to Mr Jefferson he sent the letters but to Mr Hearne - What prevarication!"

Aug. 16
" Wednesday Wind variable ?? weather cloudy and cold For the time of year. five Canoes of half? Bungees came to trade some dryed meat Fatt and some foxes? also to be trusted. traded some part of the Indians goods but they are too eager for drinking to trade all. gave the Leader of the last Indians a present as usual hope the after package will be considerable. All the Men variously employed. having given Mr Moore his instructions with some fresh provisions the Severn Sloop fell down the River and anchored in 5 fathom hole to wait for the Ship. I am sorry to say Mr Tomisons Journals are no Forwarder than the 22nd of May and? that the Surgeons behaviour is Sullen and severe? in a high deegree"

Aug. 17
" Thursday Wind West North West. The weather part clear and part cloudy. the Armourer and Smith jobbing. Guthrie and Brown finished the leading of the landing gallery of the new building. the Cooper and one man afsisting in the trading Room where my Self with Mefs Colen and Ballanden are fully employed by the Indians. a few? Northern Indians came early this morning through the Island to trade. the rest of the men variously employed. At eleven AM the Sloop made the Signal for seeing a vefsel in the offing soon after we saw a vefsel ? ? ? of the Point of Marsh soon after the Sloop? boat sailed out to her at half past three? the Ship anchored in five fathom hole and finished her ? and in the evening the Captain dilevered me? your? Honors? packet"

Aug. 18
" Friday Variable winds the weather moderate with a little rain. the Severn Sloop came up with goods ? ? her? intirely sent? the long boat for ? the Capt. went on board the Ship. The Indians traded 182 lbs of Moose flesh 917 lbs of venison and 80 lbs of fatt the venison was brought by a North river Ind. that came to trade some furrs and ? ? trusted many Indians ? and traded a tolerable quantity of furrs with them part of which we packed. cannot? finish the packages the Indians being too drunk to finish trading sent 119 lbs of Venison on board the Ship, the? Sloop came up with part of the Cargo. Entertained William Cook writer Magnus Tate Hugh Folster Hugh Beekey Andrew Flett John Hourston Thomas Flett Thomas Sinclair and Saunders? Corrigal. an Indian lad was shot dead this morning with a anno? shott at a mark as the child was running at play"

Aug. 19
" Saturday Wind variable all around the Compafs. in the morning flying clouds the Afternoon much rain. unloaded the Sloop and cut wood and put some stones for the Ship into her. traded a tolerable number of Skins but the weather is to bad to pack ? many of them being wet"

Aug. 20
" Sunday Early this morning many Indians came in from the north river with deer skins to trade and pay their debts. they also brought 1784 lbs of green venison 123 of beat meat and pemicon 39 heads 49 tongues and 4 hearts. sent 300 lbs of it to the Ship and 112 lbs to the Sloop. three Canoes of Bungees came to take trust and trade ? Moose flesh and a few furrs packed the Skins traded yesterday and stowed them away. Our? men came from the hay Island some of them being ordered home. the Inland accounts delivered to me this day specifies? that 9086 made beaver are the Amount of goods brought from Inland this Year"

Aug. 21
" Monday Wind SW clear fine weather. Traded with all the Indians most of whom went away and exprefsed their pleasure at the treatment they received from Mr Colen. traded besides a few furrs 253 lbs of dryed? Moose Flesh and 114 lbs of Fatt. unloaded Coals &c from two long boats and sent one back with stones. the Sloop came ? too late to be unloaded. Entertained David ? John Linklater and Wm Sclater? and all the rest of your Honors ? Servants?"

Aug. 22
" Tuesday the Wind variable from ? to NE by E and back to North with drizzling rain most part of this day. all the trusted Indians went of to day. the Captain and two long boats came to the Factory unloaded all the Crafts? and stowed the Cargo away as well as we can"

Aug. 23
" Wednesday Wind variable from ? by ? back to ? the weather part clear and part cloudy. Early this morning the Ship fired a gun & hoisted her Colours the Churchill Sloop being in sight ? Colours were directly hoisted and we saw the Sloop to the SW ? Ship and sometime? after she came to anchor in five fathom hole. All hands employed on Ship businefs. This day Mr Joseph Colen and Captain William Christopher sounded me to find if I had any Inclination to stay another year. I frankly said I was resolved to do whatever the Majority of the Council should think would be conducive to your Honours Interests in this application was made to Mefs Tomison Ballanden Falconer Moore and Robinson. all the Gentlemen presant except Mr Robinson agreed that Mr Colen tho' ? ? Gentleman of great abilities could not in so short a space as one year gain that knowledge which is requisite to the well? conducting of Indian affairs. I observed Mr Colen to look uneasy and soon after he desired the Council not to proceed farther in the Affair until he had a night to consult about it on which all further proceedings on the subject was droped"

Aug. 24
" Thursday Early this morning Mr Colen informed me he had duly considered of his declining the Station to which your Honors had appointed him and was resolved to fill it. I answered I think it best Sir you know the proposal did not originate with me. he replyed very true Sir You may be afsured I shall most gratefully acknowledge to my Honorable employers the many kindnefses I have rec'd from you and shall ever retain a grateful remembrance of them. Thus ended this affair"

Aug. 25
" Friday Wind variable betwixt the W and North points blows fresh with rain and very Cold. the Churchill Sloop came up with part of the Cargo unloaded her and put part of the homeward bound cargo on board her. This day application was again made to me by Captain Christopher and Mefs Tomison and Falconer for me to stay one year longer on account of Mr Joseph Colens inexperience of Inland affairs. I said I was ready to do as the Majority of the Council should determine. I acquainted Mr Colen of it who seemed most hurt and said this is Captain Christophers doings and soon after I heard very high words pafsing below stairs. Particularly those by Capt. Christopher. By G- Colen you have not experience enough to manage the Indian businefs. you know you owned? it and applyed to Mr Marten to stay who as it appear'd to us to be greatly for the Companys Interest readily complyed. The trade has encreased is increasing but if by any mistake of yours it should fall back the Consequences to the Company would be fatal and your refusing so obstinately to let Mr Marten have the Command for one year hurts you greatly in the Eyes of the Company. as to Charles Isham whom you have got for an interpreter he is almost in a dying condition. he says he is sure he shall dye if he stays - Mr Colen - I do not care I am resolved to fill the station I am appointed to - After supper the subject was again resumed when Mefs Christopher Tomison and Falconer spoke largely on the necefsity of my staying and I was again asked if I would stay. I replyed as before on which Mr Colen said he saw that we all had got our? leasons? on this. I swore and declared solemnly that I had rather go than stay that I acted pafsively? that had I not been applyed to by all the Gentlemen of the Council Mr Robinson excepted such a thought could not have entered my head. - Mr Falconer said to Mr Colen you know Sir you first proposed to me to apply to Mr Marten to stay another year. I desired you to speak to Mr Marten you did so and Mr Marten consented. what hath made you alter your mind since. I know not but by what we have seen. Three? more confirmed in our Opinion that if Mr Marten should return the Companys affairs will suffer greatly for you know very little of the language and Charles Isham is not to be depended on but suppose you did understand the language there's something more required and that is how to manage the Natives which nothing but experience can give you and which no interpreter can do for you. I speak my Sentiments? ? and declare in the ? of God I have? the Company Interest only in view by saying what I do. should Charles Isham dye things would be worse than they are now. I have spoke my mind and discharged my Conscience - Mr Colen said if Charles Isham could not afsist him Mr Ballanden had promised to send George Sutherland to afsist and that Mr Robinson had promised to afsist him too. Mr Tomison said it appeared plainly to him that I ought to stay and that he was ready to wave his right to being Chief to me for one year as he was sure it would be conducive to the Companys Interest. after this much altercation ensued But Mefs Ballanden and Robinson hardly opened their Lips - Mr Colen said what good can a Man do that hath been confined three months in his bed. on this I replyed stick to the truth? for you know I have not been confined three days this whole year. tho I own I have been very ailing. Mr Colen got up in great heat and swore if he was superseceded it should be the WORSE For Us All and directly left the room. I must confefs I was much hurt by this threat of Mr Colen as it was but a few hours before this that he had thanked me in the warmest terms of Gratitude for the Friendship I had shewn him and actually read part of a letter in which he had praised me in the highest terms of ? ? for my Conduct and kindnefs and in it were these remarkable words 'he is pafsionate but I am Confident he Erred from ? of promoting your Honors Interests' this was read to me by Mr Colen in my own room and of his own accord so help me God."

Aug. 26
" Saturday Wind as yesterday the weather cold with much rain. the Severn Sloop came up with goods from the Ship and the Churchill Sloop having rec'd? wood &c fell down to her, unloaded the Severn Sloop and did other matters relative to the Ship duties. I having duly weighed the Consequences that must arise? if I? should stay as your Chief with such a Man as Mr Robinson, and Mr Colen being utterly adverse to it knowing that a house divided must fall. I this morning informed the Gentlemen that I was resolved to abide by your Honors permifsion? of returning home. which greatly hurted some and pleased others. In justice to Mr Colen I must say his behavior in general hath been that of a Gentleman a friend a Councellor and cheerful companion"

Aug. 27
" Sunday a stiff gale at ENE with much rain till? 9AM the Churchill Sloop came up with part of the Cargo and the Severn Sloop fell down to the Ship with the remainder of the homeward bound cargo and the pafsenger Chests and ?ing Discharged from your Honors Sevice Mr William Falconer Robert Tonnant Nicholas Spence Samuel Isbester Gilbert Duncan Edward Tomison John Corston Andrew Jones and Thomas Davey? Tellescope being much wanted Mr. Colen gave me a reciept for one which I purchased of Mr. Cox on the Bartrian?, as also for an Electrical Machine which under God preserved Mr. Falconer from total blindnefs cured George Sutherland when almost bent double and from which many other persons received great benefits."

Aug. 28
" Monday Wind NE the weather part clear part cloudy with rain at times and cold. the Severn Sloop came up in the night with the remainder of the Cargo got part of Severns? the outward bound cargo on board her the Churchill Sloop fell down to the Ship."

Aug. 29
"Tuesday Wind SW fine weather. put the remainder of the Severn? outward bound cargo on board. the Bricklayer & several men setting? the lime kiln. All the rest variously employed. As we are just going to make up the Packquet I shall close my Journal with Humbly thanking Your Honors for the many favors confered on me and wishing succefs may always attend you both at home and abroad I conclude. two Canoes of North River Indians came to trade & be trusted

Honorable Gentlemen
Your dutiful and
faithful Servant
Humphrey Marten"

1M160 B.239/a/86

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