This is a virtually complete transcription of the York Factory Journal from 1790-91 by Alex Nicol

A Diary of Occurrences at York Factory
Hudson Bay North America by Joseph Colen
Resident
Commencing September 7th 1790
Ending 1791


Sept. 7 1790
" Tuesday Wind Nly part Clear and part Cloudy. Early in the Morning a sharp frost.
About Noon closed the packet and delivered it to Captain Hanwell. - Severn Sloop came up. - In the Evening Mr Gibson? came from the Ship with the Melancholly intelligence that the Boatswain and two Sailors had been mifsing ever since Yesterday Morning - They were sent from Ship in Long Boat to lay a Buoy near where the Double Headed Beacon stood (and which was washed away a few day ago) and tis to be feared the Boat foundered in the Squals of last night.
Engaged two Indians to go in search of them along the Eastern Shore. - Many Natives came in and traded."

Sept. 8
" Wednesday Clear Weather with Variable Breezes alround the Compafs.
Sloop taking in Severn Outerbound? Cargo, all hands afsist. Capt. Hanwell went on Board as did Mr Gibson. - Long Boat drop't down the River to Ship - Many Natives set off to their Winter Quarters and took Trading Goods for Mr Cook to Duck Lake."

Sept. 9
" Thursday fresh Breezes SE by E Cloudy with Rain? in the Evening
Men afsisting Loading Severn Sloop. - Captain Hanwell came on Shore. Held a Council in consequence of the lofs of Men and Long Boat and to consult the best ? to proceed. It was judged advisable for the Factory Long Boat to be taken to England in the lieu of the one lost, and Robert Tennant to afsist as Sailor on Board Ship. who is to return with your honors permifsion in his old Station next year. - About Noon Captains Hanwell and Duncan took leave and went on Board the Ship. - Many Indians went away.

Sept.10
" Friday Wind & Weather nearly as yesterday.
Early this Morning Mr William Cook set off with Nine Englishmen (all but one the refuse of Inland) in three Large Canoes accompanied by a numerous Gang of Indians to errect a House at Duck Lake up Nelson River - Trading Goods taken amounts to upwards of 4401? Made Beaver. - Two of the Large Canoes are steered by Indians for whose afsistance obliged me to pay extraordinary. necefsity compelled me to take this method as I had no more than one English Steersman to manage the Canoes. - James Batt is too weak and would not undertake the charge of Steering -(Mr Cook went away in a small Indian Canoe) the? circumstances? and having this? undertaking? ? at heart compelled me to act contrary to inclination as I had laid down a plan from the first year of my Residency never to engage a Native in any duty but in real cases of emergency - Even when I had occaision to employ them I always appeared indifferent as to their Services and by pursuing this method I avoided a very heavy expense. - for Indians are of such disatisfied dispositions, they think themselves never sufficiently paid, even for months nay Years after they will repeat the particular Service performed, and for which something ? ? given every time they come to the factory. ? they are disgusted. - For these reasons I am apprehensive the Natives I have been necefsitated? to engage will be very troublesome in future and take advantage of Mr Cook and Men when they arrive at Duck Lake for the afsistance offered them. - About Noon Mefs Ballanden? and Moore? ? lines, and Severn Sloop Sailed. - The Ship weighed Anchor but brought too? soon after.
- Two half? Bungee Indians came in with Dryed Meat and fatt which they traded. - Trusted Debt to many Home Guard Natives. - Late in the Evening the two Natives I sent off 9th Instant to the Eastward returned and tell me they found part of the wreck of a large Boat which from their discription appears to be the Long Boat belonging to the Ship - also one of her Oars - but no hope remains of the safety of the poor Men."

Sept. 11
" Saturday fresh Gales SW by S part Clear part Cloudy
Men engaged Stowing away Cargo. - About Noon Ship ? and Sailed - Pray God send her safe to her destined Ports Amen.
Natives ? ? ? went away - An old Indian Man drowned from the launch late last night or Early this morning."

Sept. 12
" Sunday fresh Gales Nly Cloudy Weather Blows too strong for home Guard Natives to set off - Killed two? Deer in River."

Sept. 13
" Monday Wind more moderate with Light Snow
Men engaged unpacking and Stowing away Cargo. Shallop came up. - Many Home Guard Natives set off to their Winters Quarters."

Sept. 14
" Tuesday Wind & Weather nearly the same.
Mens Employ as yesterday, except Mr Sutherland with one Man set off to fish? and Hunt in Marsh. - Sent off two Indians with a packet to Churchill. Remainder of home Guard Natives set off to their Winter Quarters except a few who are to the Eastward - two came from thence with a few Geese. - One? family of Bungees came in with a few furrs?"

Sept. 15
" Wedneday AM Breezes S by W Cloudy PM a fresh Gale S by E and variable Ely.
Sent off James Banks and two Men to serve? out Powder and Shot to Natives who are at the fourteens River Killing Geese. five Men afsisting them in Boat. - Sent off all the Indian Women & Children acrofs the River - The Eastward Hunters of yesterday went away. - One Bungee family came in with a few Skins which they Traded and went away. Rest of Men at home variously Employed shifting OatGroat &c into different Casks - It is with concern I am obliged to mention Our lofs in Grain? will be very considerable this Year owing to the bad Cooperage of Dry Casks - they surpafs any I ever saw for bad Work."

Sept. 16
" Thursday fresh Gales Nly & N by W Cloudy. At times Squally with showers of Rain Raw Cold.
Mens Employ nearly as before. - Had temporary Cellar dug in Garden and stowed away Porter &c. - Mr Thomas went to the Marsh Goose Tent. - The Bungees of Tuesday Traded and went away."

Sept. 17
" Friday AM Light Airs and Gentle Breezes Nly Cloudy Weather. PM more Clear.
Sent Eighteen Men to raft home timber and Fire Wood. - Eight Men to the Eastward & three in the Marsh. - Rest variously Employed."

Sept. 18
" Saturday Stiff Breezes S by W Cloudy ? ? with heavy Showers of Rain.
Late last night the Men and Boat returned from fourteens River. - Sent them this morning for the ? of a frozen? Seal drifted on shore at the point of Marsh. Invalids at home collecting Lime Stone. James Oman very bad with the Veneral Disease. Rest of Men at Woods and Hunting Tents."

Sept. 19
" Sunday Light Breezes variable from NE to NW Cloudy."

Sept. 20
" Monday Variable Breezes from S to E & Nly Cloudy with Rain Sleet and Snow.
Had the Shallop laid up in her old Winters Station below the Battery House. - Sent three Men in Canoe to join those at the Woods. - Rest of Men nearly as last Week. - Had Salt provisions overhauled and ? ? ?"

Sept. 21
" Tuesday Nly Breezes Clear sharp Weather, Men ? as before."

Sept. 22
" Wednesday Wind & Weather and Mens Employ nearly the same. The Men I sent on Monday to the Woods in Canoe returned late this Evening."

Sept. 23
" Thursday Wind and Weather nearly the same. Had Buoys taken up. - Rest Employed as before. - Part of the Indian Hunters came from the fourteens River."

Sept. 24
" Friday Cloudy Weather with variable Breezes ? towards Evening Rain.
Mefs Thomas & Sutherland came from the Marsh with their bedding as did part of the Men from the ? Woods with Rafts of Timber ? Rest as before.
The Indians of last night took up Debt - paid them for Hunting Geese. as part of skins belonged to Severn I sent them to that Settlement where? they promised ? ? ?"

Sept. 25
" Saturday fresh Gales ? Cloudy with Rain, Sleet and? snow? alternately. Remainder of Men came down? with? 11 Rafts of fire Wood &c."

Sept. 26
" Sunday Strong Gales of Wind N by W all last night ? sharp freezing Weather which continued the whole day with Hail ? ?ing Cold. - Men obliged to attend Rafts of wood greatest part of the day."

Sept. 27
" Monday fresh Gales variable from NW to WSW & Wly part Clear part Cloudy.
Sent three Men in Boat to fetch home English and Natives from French Creek - All the rest carrying Wood up the Bank. - Paid Natives for Killing Geese in which we have been, blefs God - more succefsful than any preceeding fall, considering the? few? Hunters?.
In the Evening Mr William Cook and two Men came to the factory with the disagreeable Intelligence that the Natives who accompanied him the 10th Inst. from hence, had left all the Goods intrusted to their care in a carrying place eight Days ago, and the whole of the Gang left him, one excepted, - and set off to their Winters quarters. - The reason they afsigned for their abrupt departure was they were fearful the Winter was setting in and they should not be able to reach their Hunting Ground - But the real excuse? was Mr Cook would not comply with their extravagant demands for Liquor on their Journey and as they Judged he was at so great a distance from the factory could not return, - by which Manner? all the Goods would be left to ? ? ? they could have whatever they demanded.
Mr Cook ? ? ? as he was so short? handed, it was impofsible for him to proceed for want of Steersmen and? apprehensive in ? had buried? the Goods or? staged them, they would been either spoilt or proloind?, returned with them in one large and one Small Canoes, no other Englishmen would take charge of such a quantity of Bundles in so small a Craft. - Mr Cook gave James Spence? instructions to proceed Inland with two Canoe Cargoes afsisted by Six Englishmen and one Indian Steersman to the Banks of the Duck Lake. - when he will join him if pofsible, so soon as the Rivers are frozen over.
The failure of this undertaking at first setting off is a great disappointment to me - and a greater lofs to the Honble Company - as no more than two thirds of the Goods I sent are brought back. The Canadian Traders will exult and take every advantage and consequence, besides it will give them opportunity to report unfavorable of us to Native Strangers - All which has happened thro' Mr Tomison, who had he left one or two Steersmen to Conduct Canoes up the North River all would be well, which could have been done without any detriment to his own Journey (as he took no lefs than Six Steersmen with him and notwithstanding he always Steers his own Canoes Yet had only five Canoes among the whole when he went away.) One More Steersman would have enabled me to have carried on this undertaking with Vigour - but it was denied me.
The Weather prevented Mr Cook & men coming round the point of Marsh. they were obliged to leave? the Goods at Flambro Store House.
Five Musqua Rat River Indians came in with a few furrs - paid Debts and Traded - and took up Winters Debts - They brought a Letter from James Spence."

Sept. 28
" Tuesday Variable Breezes from W by S to W by N Clear.
Sent five Men with Craft for Goods left at Flambro. Rest carrying Wood up Bank. - The Natives of yesterday went away. - Sent a few Articles of Trading Goods by them for James Spence."

Sept. 29
" Wednesday AM Light Airs SE by E Cloudy with Rain PM Strong Gales NW with heavy Rain.
Sent 10? Men to Raft home firewood - rest variously employed - James Oman very bad with the Venereal Disease and two others in the Sick list."

Sept. 30
" Thursday N by W Breezes Sharp freezing Clear Weather
All Factory Hands employed taking down Launch at New York. - Four Home Guard Natives took up Debt & set off to their Winter Quarters ? Invalids remaining dependant on the Factory are? 26 Women & Children included."

Oct. 1 1790
" Friday AM Fresh Gales SSW Clear Weather PM Strong Gales & Cloudy
Finished taking down launch at New York and began taking down Old Launch at this Factory."

Oct. 2
" Saturday Light Breezes Wly part Clear part Cloudy with Showers of Rain - Finished taking down old Launch. And late in the Evening the Men I sent to Flambro' on Tuesday returned with Trading Goods &c left by Mr Cook - by which I find that two thirds of the whole is brought back - and sorry am I to mention that James Spence has but a small quantity of tradable? Goods with him. - yet I hope with that which he has will prevent a few Indians from visiting the Canadian Traders."

Oct. 3
" Sunday fresh Gales Nly Cloudy with Rain Divine Service."

Oct. 4
" Monday fresh Breezes Nly Cloudy with flights of Snow
Had Brazil Tobacco examined, am sorry to find the whole of so bad a quality which no Native will Trade and what is of greater consequence will drive many Natives from the Honble Company's Interest - therefore if Trade should fall short in future, - it must be imputed to the Damaged Tobacco sent from England. The Old Natives on the plantation say it makes them Giddy and very sick after smoaking it - Tryed the experiment on part recommended by the Honble Committee three years ago - but the whole I am affraid? is too much decayed ever to be recovered, and it is evident too many experiments has been tried with it already.
In the afternoon sent all hands up the River to Haul the Seine, no luck. we have been very unsuccefsful in fishing this fall for notwithstanding nets have been set in various parts of the River - as well as the Seine Hauled, yet we have not caught 20 fish since the departure of the Ship."

Oct. 5
" Tuesday Stiff Breezes Nly Cloudy Weather with Snow
Nine Men preparing to leave the factory for the Winter. Severed out Provisions for Wooders & Hunters - Had Summer Doors closed and Winters communications opened"

Oct. 6
" Wednesday Light Airs Nly Cloudy with Snow
Sent Provisions to French Creek - The Men returned from the Woods with 12 light Rafts. - In the Evening the Natives who set off the 14th Ult. returned with a packet from Churchill."

Oct. 7
" Thursday Breezes NE Cloudy at times Snow
Sent five Men in Boat with provisions to the Woods near Steel River. Mr Sutherland and two Men set off at the same time to Tent and Hunt at pennycutway River. - Five in Sick list rest carrying Wood up the Bank."

Oct. 8
" Friday fresh Breezes Nly Seasonable freezing Weather
Men finished carrying wood up the Bank. Had Vegetables taken up and stowed away for the Winter."

Oct. 9
" Saturday Wly Breezes part Clear part Cloudy- Ice driving in the River.
Sent JP Whitford Writer and two Men to Tent and hunt at French Creek - Also Wm Smith and two Men to Tent and Hunt at Ten Shilling Creek. five Men afsisting the former acrofs the River - Had Tools collected and stowed away for the Winter."

Oct. 10
" Sunday Cloudy Weather Mild & thawing. Light Airs
Divine Service. - The Men sent to Pennycutway and Steel Rivers on Wednesday Each? returned with a few fish - they also brought a Beaver & porcupine from Natives they saw up the River."

Oct. 11
" Monday Cloudy with Light Airs Sly very Mild River clear of Ice.
Carpenters and Eight Labourers at New York. Set four Men to Saw Timber &c. - Having Men to learn to use the Pit Saw almost every year is a great hinderance to our buildings - as well as a geat lofs in Timber - for so soon as they become useful as Sawyers are taken Inland and I have the same trouble the next year to learn others. - Hunters as last week. - Smith, Cooper and Taylor at their respective occupations. - three in Sick list - rest employed clearing ware Houses &c."

Oct. 12
" Tuesday Light Airs Variable from S to W Clear & Mild
Began Errecting a Building at New York for Sawing Timber &c. rest of men not employed in the above nearly as before."

Oct. 13
" Wednesday AM Breezes Nly Cloudy - PM a strong Gale with a heavy fall of Snow.
Men as before till noon when the Weather proved too bad to work out."

Oct. 14
" Thursday Nly Breezes Cloudy with Snow & Sleet
Men as before. - Sent two Indians in Canoe to pennycutway for the produce of Mr Sutherlands hunt."

Oct. 15
" Friday Breezes S by W Cloudy
Mens Employ nearly as before - Two Men came from Ten Shilling Creek with a few Trout. - Saw a smoak at French Creek - Sent four Men in Boat who returned with J.P. Whitford - his ill state of health renders him unfit to stay at the Hunting Tent. - Sent one Man to supply his place - Almost the whole of the Labourers now at the Factory are Invalids - who are unfit for Laborious duties. therefore much work is not to be expected from them which obliges me to take Tradesmen from their Occupations to do labourers Work. - In the Evening the Natives of yesterday returned from Mr Sutherland with a good supply of Methy fish."

Oct. 16
" Saturday fresh Breezes Nly Cloudy with drifting Snow - towards Evening freezing - Too bad weather to work out. Men variously Employed in House."

Oct. 17
" Sunday Breezes NE Cloudy Mild and thawing Heavy Showers of Rain last night - Divine Service."

Oct. 18
" Monday Wind as Yesterday part Clear part Cloudy with Snow - towards Evening freezing.
Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Labourers (sick excepted) variously Employed at New York. Hunters as before."

Oct. 19
" Tuesday fresh Breezes SW part Clear part Cloudy Men's Employ as before & sick the same.
On examining Invoice received from England of 1788 I discovered the difficiency of Cloth mentioned in last General Letter - And am sorry to find the error proceeded thro' mistake of adding up the quantity by William Cook Writer. I have in consequence reprimanded him - he promises to pay greater attention in future - The accounts has been settled by him ever since the year 1787 and as the error was discovered to be in the third set of Books he balanced at York. - I hope your honors will not impute the mistake to arise thro' my neglect - I declare I had, and have a great opinion of his abilities as an Accountant. - The Account Books of 1789 and those of this Year (sent home) were entirely settled by him without my inspection as my time and attention is wholly taken up amongst the workmen, with Natives and providing for Inland Trade. But in future I can afsure your honors the Books shall be properly examined before they go from this Factory. - Your Honors are to understand that the Bale No. 108 mentioned in Invoice 1788 containing 1367 ? Yards of Red Corded Cloth was not landed at York - and instead of one Yard of fine Blue and one Yard of fine Green? being difficient - as specified in Gen'l Letter - a Yard more of each was taken on Account in York Factory Books than the Invoice specifies - it being the quantity marked on the end of each piece?
It is with pleasure I mention that the Cargo received? this Year is more compleat than I have seen since my Residence in this Country - and was it not for the bad Cooperage of Dry Casks (by which we loose many Bushel of Grain) it may be justly said the like has not been landed for many Years."

Oct. 20
" Wednesday Wind and Weather and Mens Employ nearly the same. - Sent two Indians in Canoe to pennycutway for the produce of Mr Sutherland's hunt."

Oct. 21
" Thursday Variable Breezes N by W Cloudy with Snow
All hands sick excepted Employed making foundations at New York for a Platform from the Buildings to the Banks Edge and Launch House.
Mice are so numerous around we cannot keep our Warehouses clear of them. they have done much injury to our Cloth since the departure of the Ship. The plantation and woods swarm with these distructive Vermins - In order to distroy them I encourage the Indian Children to kill them around the Stockades who bring in from 12 to 14 Doz. each day - besides what are killed by our domestic Animals - Yet I cannot find their Numbers decrease. - In the Evening the Natives I sent to pennycutway River returned with a few fish Rabbits & partridges."

Oct. 22
" Friday Breezes S by W Cloudy with Rain - Men as before."

Oct. 23
" Saturday A Strong Gale Nly Cloudy with Rain and Sleet - Men and Sick as before."

Oct. 24
" Sunday Variable Breezes from N to E part Clear part Cloudy & freezing - at times Snow - Divine Service."

Oct. 25
" Monday Breezes SE part Clear part Cloudy freezing. Much Ice in the River.
Mens Employ as the latter part of last Week - except Taylor at work for Trade. - It will be a great disappointment to Natives and lofs to the Honble Company not having a Taylor sent out in lieu of John Caithnefs. last Year we had not half sufficient Coaths made for Trade with two Taylors continually at Work - James Smith is turning an Old Man and very slow at his businefs - and I have no person at the factory who can afsist him therein - here were two or three of his profefsion here in the fall but were taken Inland."

Oct. 26
" Tuesday Wind & Weather & Mens Employ the same."

Oct. 27
" Wednesday- the same - Weather more mild."

Oct. 28
" Thursday Light Airs Nly Cloudy Men as before."

Oct. 29
" Friday Squals of Wind variable part Clear part Cloudy at times Hail Sleet & Snow. - Men & Sick as before."

Oct. 30
" Saturday Light Breezes Variable from N to E by S Cloudy - Men and Sick as before.
Finished foundations for platform at New York and laid Sleepers ready for covering? next Season. - I find two Carts? I had made are of great utility in forwarding our businefs - and enables us to do more work than treble the Number of Men with Wheel Barrows."

Oct. 31
" Sunday Wind & Weather as yesterday - Divine Service."

Nov. 1 1790
" Monday Wind SE part Clear part Cloudy Mild for the Season.
Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Labourers variously employed clearing and leveling Ground at New York Plantation. laid out the same? for Stockades. Three Men in Sick List - Hunters as last Week."

Nov. 2
" Tuesday Wind Weather and Mens Employ the same."

Nov. 3
" Wednesday - The same - more Cold."

Nov. 4
" Thursday Light Breezes Nly Cloudy & freezing - Large Fields of heavy Ice in the River - Men as before."

Nov. 5
" Friday Variable Breezes from N to S Cloudy - All hands till noon carrying timber to SawPit, Afterwards recreating themselves as usual on the Aniversary of the Powder Plot."

Nov. 6
" Saturday AM Wind and Weather as yesterday - PM Breezes NE with Hail and Snow - Men as before."

Nov. 7
" Sunday Wind & Weather as yesterday afternoon. Divine Service."

Nov. 8
" Monday Nly Breezes part Clear part Cloudy - Sharp freezing weather - Men and Sick as the former part of last week."

Nov. 9
" Tuesday Wind as before Cloudy with drifting Snow PM fresh Breezes SW very Cold and Clear - Mens Employ the same."

Nov. 10
" Wedneday Wind & weather the same - Men as before."

Nov. 11
" Thursday Variable Stiff Breezes SW Cloudy with thick drifting Snow. Too bad Weather to work out. Men variously Employed in House."

Nov. 12
" Friday Light Breezes N by E Cloudy Men as on Wednesday."

Nov. 13
" Saturday Variable Breezes from N to E Cloudy with Snow. Men as before."

Nov. 14
" Sunday Wind variable from NE to SE Clear fine ? Divine Service."

Nov. 15
" Monday Strong Gales Sly Cloudy & thick drift PM Men and Sick as last Week."

Nov. 16
" Tuesday Fresh Breezes N by W Cloudy & Severe Cold. Weather Colder this day by 23° than any this Season being 2° below the Cypher - Men as before - Mr Thomas Surgeon very Ill."

Nov. 17
" Wednesday Cloudy and Mild for the Season - Calm
Peter? Goudie? added to the Sick list. Rest as before.
Had Bales of Cloth overhauled and Stowed away in Upper Ware house at New York. Notwithstanding the pains taken to prevent Mice doing an Injury all our precautions have proved ineffectual - these Vermin are more numerous than was ever remembered at this place. Bushels has been killed this fall by Indian Children yet their numbers does not appear to decrease. - Their large quantities are attributed to the mildnefs of last Winter which did not destroy them as usual - and which increased the Breed considerably this Season."

Nov. 18
" Thursday AM fresh Breezes Nly & Cloudy. PM Drifting Snow - very thick dark Weather. - Men and Sick as before. Mr Thomas continues very Ill."

Nov. 19
" Friday Wind & Weather nearly as Yesterday - And Men and Sick the same - River Ice set fast abreast the Factory - Open at the fishing Creek below. - The flats, south Channel and River above the Mile Sand appears remarkable rough."

Nov. 20
" Saturday Strong Gales variable from N to E Cloudy drifting Snow. - Too bad Weather to Work out. Men variously employed in House."

Nov. 21
" Sunday fresh Gales Nly thick drifting Snow. Snow very deep around our Works and pafsages to ware Houses? nearly closed."

Nov. 22
" Monday fresh Breezes N by W Clear & Severe Cold.
Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Labourers variously employed making pafsages thro' the Snow to our Ware Houses &c.
Hoisted Colours as a signal for the Hunters to apprize them of the River Ice being froze over - Two Men came from Ten Shilling Creek with a few Rabbits and fish and one Man from French Creek with two Beaver & fish. - Game is scarce at the former place - but at the latter they have been succefsful killing fish - Very few partridges seen this Season.
Nich'l Spence pateroon unfortunately fell from one of the Upper Ware Houses at New York - by which accident he is rendered uncapable of duty. - James Oman under a Salavation for the Venereal Disease & is very bad. this Man has not done any the least duty since he landed and from appearances will not be able for many Months to come. - Mr Thomas better and able to attend the Sick."

Nov. 23
" Tuesday fresh Breezes NW Cold & Cloudy
Sent off one Man with two Natives and four Dogs Sleds &c to? Pennycutway River - The Hunters of yesterday went to their respective Tents. - Gave orders for those Tenting at Ten Shilling Creek to join the Hunters at French Creek. Rest of Men and Sick as before."

Nov. 24
" Wednesday AM Wind and Weather as Yesterday PM more Clear. - Mens Employ nearly the same. Two Men came from French Creek with fish and Rabbits - one brought home his bedding. - One Man came from Ten Shilling Creek with a few Rabbits."

Nov. 25
" Thursday Wind & Weather as yesterday Afternoon.
Had Watering and Victualling Hole opened in River Ice. The Hunters of yesterday went away - Sent P Goudie with them - Rest of men nearly as before. - In the Evening the Men and Dogs returned from Pennycutway Hunting Tent with a good supply of Methy fish. - Mr Sutherland writes me that Partridges and Rabbits are very scarse up the River and very few fish to be caught since the River froze over?."

Nov. 26
" Friday Variable Breezes from NW to S by W Clear
Labourers engaged setting Beacons acrofs the River. Tradesmen as before."

Nov. 27
" Saturday Moderate Breezes S by W Clear fine Weather
Labourers cutting down Woods around new York. Tradesmen as before. One Man came from French Creek with fish &c"

Nov. 28
" Sunday Light Airs variable alround the Compafs. AM Clear PM Cloudy - Divine Service. - The Hunter of yesterday went to his Tent."

Nov. 29
" Monday Variable Light Breezes from N to E Cloudy with Snow. - Sent one Man with four Dogs & Sleds to the Hunters at Pennycutway - Mr Thomas accompanied them to attend Mr Sutherland who is Ill. - One Man & Dog came from french Creek Tent with fish - Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Labourers Grinding Oatmeal &c."

Nov. 30
" Tuesday AM Light Airs N by W Clear Weather PM Cloudy with Breezes Ely. - The Hunter of yesterday went to his Tent - part of the Labourers cutting down Wood around New York - Rest as before."

Dec. 1 1790
" Wednesday ? Breezes Nly Clear Severe Weather.
The Man and Dogs returned from Pennycutway with fish and Rabbits - Mr Thomas stays with Mr Sutherland a few days - Rest as before."

Dec. 2
" Thursday AM Breezes Ely Clear - PM Variable & Cloudy?
Had Victualling Hole opened. Rest of Men not Employed on these duties nearly as before - David Thompson and one Man afsisting me? sorting and packing small Articles for Inland."

Dec. 3
" Friday fresh Breezes Nly Cloudy with drifting Snow
Labourers Grinding Oatmeal - Rest as before."

Dec. 4
" Saturday fresh Gales Nly Sharp drifting Weather
Men nearly as before. two Men came from French Creek Hunting Tent with Fish &c."

Dec. 5
" Sunday Wind and Weather nearly as yesterday more Severe - Hunters went to their Tents - Divine Service."

Dec. 6
" Monday Wind and Weather the same and Mens Employ as last Week. - Mr Thomas returned from Pennycutway - says there is no partridges or Rabbits neither has there been? any? fish caught there since the River Ice set fast and that Mr Sutherland wished to return to the Factory. Sent two Men & five Dogs to afsist him home with his things &c."

Dec. 7
" Tuesday fresh Breezes Wly Clear Severe Weather
Men nearly as before - A Native came in to beg provisions for three families who are on their Journey to the Factory and late in the Evening two Northern Indians arrived belonging to the same party having left their furrs at the back of this Island. - They tell me a large party were coming to the Factory but meeting with Englishmen at Split Lake purchased part of the necefsaries they wanted, but as they could not get as much Iron Work as they required Obliged a few to come to York. - The latter brought a Letter from James Spence to which I refer your Honors. (vide Country Correspondence)"

Dec. 8
" Wednesday Light Airs Variable Ely Clear Weather
Men nearly as before. - The Native families of Yesterday came in with a few furrs - They tell me pr Southern Interpreter? that this Settlement is situated some days Journey nearer their Country than what Churchill is, and the Track is better supplied with provisions - they also told me they were Debtors in Churchill Books - but had left sufficient furrs up to Pay Mr Jefferson - and should go from hence to that Settlement to give their friends the meeting who had undertaken to carry their bundles? for them."

Dec. 9
" Thursday Ely Breezes Clear & fine. Men as before.
In the Evening - Mr Sutherland - Men and Dogs came from Pennycutway to remain at the Factory - Two Men remains at the Tent to Kill Provisions for Wooders after Christmas."

Dec. 10
" Friday Nly Breezes Clear Weather. - Sent five Men & Dogs to the fourteens River for Geese left Salted in the fall."

Dec. 11
" Saturday Breezes SW by W Clear - Sent two Men with Dogs and Sleds to Haul Provisions near Steel River for Wooders &c after Christmas - One Man & Dogs came from French Creek Hunting Tent - Labourers opening Victualling Hole. Rest as before."

Dec. 12
" Sunday Fresh Breezes NE Cloudy Weather - Divine Service."

Dec. 13
" Monday Clear Weather with NW Breezes. The Hunter of Saturday went to his Tent - Nichl Spence and James Oman very Ill - Rest as last Week."

Dec. 14
" Tuesday Cloudy with fresh Breezes NW and drifting. - Men as before. - An Indian Young Man died on the Plantation who had been long Ill and dependant on the factory."

Dec. 15
" Wednesday Nly Breezes Clear. Men as before."

Dec. 16
" Thursday fresh Breezes NW by W Cloudy and Drifiting.
The Northern Indians Traded and Complain much in the badnefs of our Hatchets - As part of these Indians are returning back to their friends and others going for Churchill - I made Mr Willm Cook an offer to accompany them up Nelson River where he would join James Spence and Englishmen at Split Lake but he objected going with Strangers whose Language he did not understand."

Dec. 17
" Friday Wind as yesterday Weather more Clear. Mens Employ the same. - In the afternoon a Native Home Guard and family came in ? ? ? with a few furrs."

Dec. 18
" Saturday SW Breezes Clear Weather. part of the Men from French Creek came home with their Bedding - Rest as before. - The Northern Indians went away - and the Home Guard of yesterday Traded."

Dec. 19
" Sunday NW Breezes Clear Weather - Two of the Northern Indians returned with their Linguist and all their Hatchets broken to pieces. - they make use of very bitter and Ill natured asperfsions against us for selling them such bad ones. - Justice obliges me to mention that the Hatchets sent out? for? ? last year have been very bad - they are too brittle and will not stand the cutting of a stick and it is evident they are finished in a too carelefs manner. - The Weld is not properly worked as sometimes large pieces will scale off and leave in appearance only half a hatchet. - Indeed this Article being of bad quality is often attended with very serious consequences to Natives and a great annual lofs to the Honble Company - They made equal complaint against the Brazil Tobacco."

Dec. 20
" Monday Fresh Breezes SW by W Cloudy Weather
Tradesmen getting Large Sleds & Tools in readinefs for Work after Christmas - Labourers cutting fire wood."

Dec. 21
" Tuesday Wind and Weather and Mens Employ the same. James Oman on duty for the first time since he landed."

Dec. 22
" Wednesday Drifting Weather with fresh Breezes Nly
Mens Employ as before. - The two Hunters came from Pennycutway with their bedding &c.
Two Northern Indians returned to the Factory for Mr Thomas afsistance one of them very Ill, - they tell me the rest are on their Journey up Nelson River."

Dec 23
" Thursday Wind & Weather as yesterday and Mens Employ the same - The French Creek Hunters came home with their bedding."

Dec. 24
" Friday Wly Breezes Clear Weather. Had Watering and Victualling Hole opened - and things collected together."

Dec. 25
" Saturday fresh Gales Nly Cloudy thick Drift and very Cold - Divine Service."

Dec. 26
" Sunday Light Breezes NW Cloudy - Divine Service. An Indian fanily came in with a few furrs &c."

Dec. 27
" Monday more Clear Wind as before."

Dec. 28
" Tuesday part Clear part Cloudy Drifting with? Severe? Cold Fresh Gales Nly."

Dec. 29
" Wednesday fresh Breezes Nly Clear Weather. Sent Men for Coble left at Ten Shilling Creek last fall by Hunters - The Natives of Sunday Traded and went away."

Dec. 30
" Thursday Variable Breezes from W by S to WNW Clear Weather. - Sent two Men to pennycutway Hunting Tent to take care of the things left there."

Dec. 31
" Friday AM Drifting Snow & Cloudy PM more Clear with fresh Breezes Nly."

Jan. 1 1791
" Saturday AM fresh Breezes Nly Clear Weather PM Cloudy and drifting Snow
The Men finished their Holliday diversions - God be praised? we begin the New Year with more pleasing prospects than for three years past. - ? is our? Attendant? - Kind providence smiles on us - we abound in every? plenty? which we? enjoy? with thankful hearts. - May the Trade of ensuing? Year prove more beneficial to my Honble Employers than any that is past is my sincere wish and which is re-echoed by every person under my Command."

Jan. 2
" Sunday Wind as before part Clear part Cloudy Divine Service."

Jan. 3
" Monday Wind and Weather as yesterday - Sent three? Men to Tent and Hunt to the Eastward - All other able hands preparing to leave the factory tomorrow."

Jan. 4
" Tuesday SW Breezes part Clear part Cloudy. Sent off Carpenters, Sawyers, with the Smith and all the Labourers fit for duty - in the whole Seventeen Men to cut down Timbers between pennycutway and Steel Rivers - One Man & Dogs - with one of the pennycutway Hunters accompanied them - The rest at the House (Officers excepted) are scarsely able to cut their own wood for fires - James Grimbester the Cooper poor Man shews evident signs of insanity - which will be a great hinderance to Inland - as I have very few Rundlets as yet made. - Nichl Spence Pateroon? still confined? with the Bruises reced the 20th November last."

Jan. 5
" Wednesday Cloudy with Nly Breezes - Men at Home Grinding Oatmeal for Inland - Rest as before."

Jan. 6
" Thursday More Clear - Wind as before and Men the same."

Jan. 7
" Friday SSW Breezes Clear Weather Men as before
All the Home Guard Native Invalids and Hunters removed their Tent acrofs the River on account of the Severity of the Weather and the great scarsity of Wood around the factory. - The Northern Indians removed to the back of the Island."

Jan. 8
" Saturday Light Breezes Cloudy with Snow - Men? as before. - One Man ? ? from Stoney? Rivers with a few Partridges and the? Men? and Dogs returned from ?"

Jan. 9
" Sunday fresh Breezes Nly thick drift Divine Service."

Jan. 10
" Monday Clear Weather ? Breezes - the Hunter of Saturday went to his Tent - Cooper much better and able to block? heads? for Rundlets - Rest of men as last Week."

Jan. 11
" Tuesday Wind, Weather and Mens Employ the Same."

Jan. 12
" Wednesday fresh Breezes ESE Cloudy with Snow - Men nearly as before."

Jan. 13
" Thursday Wind the same Cloudy weather - Men as before
Sent Man and Dogs to the Woods with fresh provisions."

Jan. 14
" Friday Variable Breezes from E to W part Clear part Cloudy
Willm Cook Writer set off to Tent and look after setting Guns at Crofs Creek. Rest as before."

Jan. 15
" Saturday Sly Breezes Clear Weather - One Man came from the Eastward Hunting Tent - Rest as before."

Jan. 16
" Sunday Nly Breezes with thick Rime and Cloudy
Engaged two Indians to go acrofs Nelson River to Kill Partridges"

Jan. 17
" Monday Breezes N by W Clear Weather. - The Hunter of Saturday went to his Tent - The Man and Dogs returned from the Woods. - Rest of Men as before. - The Northern Indians came ? in - and prepared their bundles to set off tomorrow."

Jan. 18
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as before - Mens Employ the Same. - The Northern Indians having recovered from their Illnefs set off to Churchill to meet their friends at that Settlement. - Sent a Letter by them to Mr Jefferson - for a few Necefsaries I want from thence to be brought here by his packet Men."

Jan. 19
" Wednesday AM Light Airs Ely Cloudy with Light Snow PM more Clear - Men at home opening Victualling Hole &c. Rest as before."

Jan. 20
" Thursday NW? Breezes Cloudy - Sent off Men & Dogs to the Woods - James Hall came to the factory for Instructions to proceed? at the twelve Mile Island - The Men have cut down all the Timber (about 250 Pieces) near the River - Rest as before - The Natives of Sunday last Returned from Nelson River with 160 Partridges."

Jan. 21
" Friday fresh Breezes Wly Clear Weather - James Hall went to the Woods - Mr Cook came from his Tent. Rest as before."

Jan. 22
" Saturday Variable Breezes from W to SE Clear & fine
Two Men came from the Woods as did the Smith to make Tools &c. - One Man came from the Eastward Hunting Tent and Mr Cook went to his."

Jan. 23
" Sunday Light Breezes part Clear part Cloudy with light Snow. - The Hunter of yesterday went to his Tent."

Jan. 24
" Monday NW Breezes Cloudy Cold Weather - The Wooders of Saturday went to their Tent - sent two Invalids to look for the ? Smith making Handles for Pit Saws. In the Evening Henry? Gaines? came from the Eastward Hunting Tent with his Bedding - Rest of Men as before."

Jan. 25
" Tuesday Nly Breezes Clear Weather - Henry Gaines preparing Boxes? for Pit Saw - Rest as before - In the Evening the Man and Dogs returned from the Woods."

Jan. 26
" Wednesday Wly Breezes Clear. Henry Gaines went to the Woods. - Smith making Spike Nails. Rest as before."

Jan. 27
" Thursday Wind as before Cloudy Weather - Men the same. Sent Man & Dogs to the Woods."

Jan. 28
" Friday fresh Breezes variable from E to N Cloudy with Snow - towards Evening thick Drift and a Strong Gale NE. - Mens Employ as before."

Jan. 29
" Saturday Gale Continues with Snow and thick Drift.
Engaged two Natives to go with a packet to Severn. prepar'd Letters for that Settlement - and the Bay. Men variously Employed in House."

Jan. 30
" Sunday Clear Weather with variable Breezes from N to W Snow around the Works nearly to the Tops of the Stockades. Man and Dogs came from the Woods as did one from the Eastward Hunting Tent."

Jan. 31
" Monday Clear Weather with Nly Breezes. The Man? and Hunter of yesterday went to their respective Tents. - Closed the Packet - and sent off two Natives with it to Severn - in which Letters for the Bay Settlements are enclosed."

Feb. 1 1791
" Tuesday Wind, Weather and Mens Employ - the same."

Feb. 2
" Wednesday AM Breezes SW Cloudy PM more Clear
Sent Mr Sutherland to examine work done by Men at the Woods - Rest of Men as before - Sent an Indian and family to Trap small furrs."

Feb. 3
" Thursday Wly Breezes part Clear part Cloudy Intensely? Severe.
Men as before."

Feb. 4
" Friday Six Men came from the Woods for New Large Sled - the one they had broke yesterday - Mr Sutherland also came home and reports favorable of the Work done but says the Timber the Sawyers are now cutting is between two and three Miles from the Banks Edge - he also tells me there is no firewood to be found at a lefs distance - Wind and Weather as yesterday."

Feb. 5
" Saturday fresh Breezes NW Clear sharp Weather
Wooders of yesterday went to their Tent - One Hunter came from the Eastward - as did one from the Eight Mile Island (the Pennycutway River Hunters having removed there) Rest as before."

Feb. 6
" Sunday Wind and Weather as yesterday. The Hunters went to their respective Tents - Divine Service."

Feb. 7
" Monday Wind & Weather the Same - Mens Employ the same as last Week - Cooper at times Insane & unfit for duty - Nichl Spence patroon still confined."

Feb. 8
" Tuesday Weather the same - Wind Westerly - Mefs? Thomas and Sutherland with his family set off to Tent and Hunt acrofs Nelson River. - Two Men afsisting them - Rest as before."

Feb. 9
" Wednesday Wind and Weather the same till Noon ? fresh Gales S by W Cloudy - Men as before."

Feb. 10
" Thursday fresh Breezes Nly part Clear part Cloudy - Men as before."

Feb. 11
" Friday Wind as before Clear Weather - Mr Cook came from his Tent - The two Men who accompanied Mefs Thomas and Sutherland acrofs Nelson River returned as did ? from the Wooders Tent for Provisions - make great complaint of a few? pieces of Pork being so very rancid that they cannot Eat - even the Dogs refused to taste it when drefs - tho fine looking when taken out of the Cask.
This morning I went to Visit my Invalid Natives acrofs the river. it happened at a time when they were making a human Sacrifice, the funeral pile was lighting just as I got there, and the devoted Victim, a female Child of three Years Old. - From what I learn the infant had had Convulsed fits a few days before and which happened to return on her with greater violence this Morning, as to alarm its Mother and the rest of the old Natives - who concluded from the distortion of the Childs features that it was Mad - and to prevent its doing them mischief dispatched the Innocent to its long homes? - And in order to keep the babe? from Molesting them hereafter as well as to prevent its injuring any Travellers in its Journey to the other world commited this body to the flames where I saw it consuming. - Indeed I saw sufficient to shock my feelings which makes me shudder while writting. - I have been particular in relating the circumstances as I cannot hear from the Oldest Servant in this employ an instance of this kind among these low Country Natives. And had it not been for one of the Old Natives who came this afternoon to beg a little Grog (as is always customary at the Death or funeral of any Relations) I should have been still ignorant of their motives for such an inhumane act. From this Old Man I had the above particulars - tho' he told it me as a secret and in confidence - he said it was common among them to have human sacrifices - but that it was performed with the greatest privacy and none but those who were turning Mad were commited to the flames - He mentioned three by Name that had taken place since I have been in this Country - he also mentioned that it is the greatest disgrace to have it known that any Relative was disordered in their Mind."

Feb. 12
" Saturday Wly Breezes Clear Sharp Weather - The Wooders of Yesterday went to their Tent. - as did Mr Cook to his - One Man came from each of the Hunting Tents - as did one Man from the Sawyers for provisions - Rest as before."

Feb. 13
" Sunday AM Breezes Ely with light drifting Snow. PM fresh Gales Nly thick drift - The Sawyers & Hunter from? the Islands up the River went to their respective Tents."

Feb. 14
" Monday Clear Weather with Nly Breezes. - The Eastward Hunter went to his Tent. Rest of Men as last Week. An Indian came in to beg provisions."

Feb. 15
" Tuesday Nly Breezes Intensely Severe and Hazzy.
Men as before - JP Whitford went to join Mr W Cook at his Tent at Crofs Creek. Indian of yesterday went away."

Feb. 16
" Wednesday Wind and Weather and Mens Employ the same."

Feb. 17
" Thursday Wind and Weather and Men as before. ? two? who went to the Hunters Tent acrofs Nelson River - Late in the Evening two Indians arrived with a Packet from Churchill."

Feb. 18
" Friday Weather as before - Wind variable Wly. Men? of yesterday came from Nelson River Hunting Tent - as did Mr Thomas - Packet Indians went to the Indian Tent acrofs the River - Men as before."

Feb. 19
" Saturday Light Airs SW part Clear part Cloudy
Three Men came from the Woods for provisions - as did one Man from the Eastward Hunting Tent - Rest as before."

Feb. 20
" Sunday Light Breezes NE Clear - The Wooders and Eastward Hunter of yesterday went to their respective Tents. - Mefs Cook & Co came from theirs as did the Packet Indians from acrofs the River."

Feb. 21
" Monday Light Breezes from NW to W Clear - towards Evening fresh Gales Nly with thick drift - Mefs Thomas, Cook & Co went to their respective Tents. - Rest of men nearly as last Week. - The Packet Indians went acrofs the River."

Feb. 22
" Tuesday fresh Breezes N by W part Clear part Cloudy.
Prepared Letters for Churchill - One man came from the woods with Mens Letters - Rest as before."

Feb. 23
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as before - The man? from the Woods yesterday went to his tent - Rest as before - Packet Indians came from acrofs the River. Closed the Packet."

Feb. 24
" Thursday WSW Breezes towards Evening a fresh Gale Nly - The Packet Indians set off on their return to Churchill. In the afternoon James Hall came from the Woods for Tools and Iron Work to mend the Timber? Sled which broke this Morning - Smith at work on the same - Rest as before."

Feb. 25
" Friday Strong Gales Nly drifting Cold and uncomfortable - Too bad weather to work out."

Feb .26
" Saturday Wly Breezes Clear - Sent two Men with Dogs & Sleds to Nelson River Hunting Tent - four Men came from the Woods for Provisons as did one from each of the Hunting Tents.
In the Evening the Natives I sent the 31st Ult. to Severn returned with a packet from that Settlement. - An Indian came in to beg provisions."

Feb. 27
" Sunday AM fresh Breezes Nly Clear & fine PM fresh Gales NE Cloudy & thick drift - All the Wooders and Hunters of yesterday went to their respective Tents. - In the afternoon the Men and Dogs of Saturday returned from Nelson River Hunting Tent with 300 Partridges part of which were Netted. - Divine Service."

Feb. 28
" Monday fresh Breezes Nly fine & Clear. - Men as last Week. - The Natives of Saturday went away."

Mar. 1 1791
" Tuesday Light Breezes SW fine & Clear. Mens Employ nearly the same. - Trusted Packet Natives small debts and sent them to Trap small furrs. - Set off to the Woods."

Mar. 2 Wednesday and Mar. 3 Thursday
" Wind & Weather and Mens Employ the Same.
It gives me pleasure in mentioning that the Men have upwards of 600 Pieces of Timber cut down near the twelve Mile Islands - tho' at the distance of nearly three Miles from the Banks Edge - 400 of which is hauled out, the rest (200 Pieces) sawed into Quartering Joice and Plank and I expect the whole with the fire Wood will be compleated ready for rafting in three Weeks time. - The Young Men Natives and families having left the Tent acrofs the River and set off Traping small furrs - The Old Invalids came to the Factory."

Mar. 4
" Friday AM Cloudy Weather with NE Breezes PM? Drifting with a fresh Gale - Sent two Men and Dogs to Nelson River Hunting Tent - Rest as before."

Mar. 5
" Saturday NW? Breezes Clear Waether - Two Men came from the woods for Provisions as did one Hunter from the Eastward - the Men of yesterday returned from Nelson River with ? partridges - Mr Thomas came from thence - Rest of Men as before."

Mar. 6
" Sunday Wind and weather nearly as yesterday. The Hunters and Wooders of yesterday went to their Tents. Mr Cook came from his. - One Native came in with a few Martin Skins which he Traded and went away."

Mar. 7
" Monday Variable Breezes from NNW to SSW Clear & Cold. Mefs Thomas & Cook went to their respective Tents. Rest of Men as last Week - Went to Ten Shilling Creek to examine a quantity of Dry Wood collected together by one of my Home Guard Natives."

Mar. 8
" Tuesday Wind - Weather and Mens Employ the same."

Mar. 9
" Wednesday fresh Breezes Nly Clear & Cold - Sent a Man to afsist the Hunters Home from the Eight Mile Island . Rest as before."

Mar. 10
" Thursday Variable Breezes Clear Weather. Hunters came from the Eight Mile Island with their Tent and bedding. Rest as before."

Mar. 11
" Friday Wind & Weather as before. Mens Employ the same except Hunter? who? I sent up Nelson River."

Mar. 12
" Saturday NW Breezes Clear Cold Weather. - Three Men came from the Woods for provisions - One Man came from each of the Hunting Tents. rest as before."

Mar. 13
" Sunday AM Wind and weather as before - PM variable Gales and Squals of Wind. Wooders and Hunters went to their respective Tents. - An Indian came in to beg provisions."

Mar. 14
" Monday Variable Stiff Breezes Nly Clear & Cold. Had two Hhds of Partridges burried in the Snow. - Mens Employ as last Week."

Mar. 15
" Tuesday Light Breezes variable from W by S & S by SW? Clear weather - Had Victualling Hole opened - Men not employed on this duty as before."

Mar. 16
" Wednesday fresh Gales Nly Cloudy with light Snow - Mens Employ the same."

Mar. 17
" Thursday fresh Breezes N by W Hazzy. Men as before."

Mar. 18
" Friday Wly Breezes Clear Weather - ? ? Men came from Nelson River Hunting Tent. Rest as before."

Mar. 19
" Saturday Variable Breezes from S to W Clear & Cold.
The Hunters of yesterday went to their Tent - Five Men came from the Woods for provisions - they hauled home Thomas Moore - who has been long disabled at the Tent with a froze foot - One Man came from the Eastward with Partridges."

Mar. 20
" Sunday Early AM Gentle Breezes S by W fine & Clear Afterwards variable Squals of Wind NE Cloudy with? Snow.
The Hunters and Wooders of yesterday went away except Thomas Moore - Mr Thomas came from Nelson River Tent."

Mar. 21
" Monday Variable light Breezes alround the Compafs Clear Weather - Had 200 Bags Made for Shot and Ball for Inland Trade - Had Snow Cleared from the Tops of Building at New York. - Mr Cook came from his Tent and returned - Mr Thomas went to his - Rest of Men employed as last Week - Three Natives came in with a few furrs which they Traded and went away."

Mar. 22
" Tuesday Light Breezes Ely Cloudy & thawing Men as before."

Mar. 23
" Wednesday Much light Snow fell last Night - which partly thawed in the day - Wind as yesterday & Mens Employ the same."

Mar. 24
" Thursday AM fresh Gales NE Clear Cold Weather PM Moderate - Men as before."

Mar. 25
" Friday AM Light Airs NW Clear PM fresh Breezes variable - towards Evening a Strong Gale Ely.
Two Men & Dogs came from Nelson River Hunting Tent. As did all the Sawyers from the Woods with their Tent and Bedding. Rest as before.
In the afternoon four Natives arrived tolerably well loaded with furrs."

Mar. 26
" Saturday Gale continued till about 8? AM when it increased to a storm? with Hail and Sleet.
All the wooders came home with their Tent and bedding. the? Hunters came from the Eastward early with partridges. The Indians of yesterday paid Debts in part and Traded."

Mar. 27
" Sunday NE Breezes Cloudy weather - at times Snow. The Snow is become so deep that all our Avenues are closed up - and Doors barricated with it many? feet. Indeed I never saw the Snow such a depth as it is at this time since i have been in Hudsons Bay - towards Evening a strong Gale Nly - Divine Service. The Nelson River Hunters went to their Tent Mefs Cook & Co came from theirs and returned soon after."

Mar. 28
" Monday The Gale Continued till noon with thick drift when it died away - and the weather became clear - afternoon moderate Breezes.
Men variously employed in House. In the afternoon the Eastward Hunters went to their Tents. - The Natives got their things in readinefs to set off tomorrow - They refused accepting any of the Brazil Tobacco when offered them as presents and returned that which they traded on Saturday. also told me that it was far better for themselves and friends to smoak Willow ? which they? were? ? was wholesome than to smoak our Brazil Tobacco - which was made from Flag Leaves? steeped in Urine - for they had become much disordered after smoaking a few pipes of what they Traded a few days ago - Indeed the Indians make use of Indecent? Language in their ? and are very bitter against us for deceiving them in this Article."

Mar. 29
" Tuesday fresh Breezes Wly Clear - Carpenters preparing their Tools - Four Men at the pit Saw - Smith and Taylor as before. The Cooper poor Man at times Insane and unable to work. which will put back our Inland duty very much as we had? no long Rundlets sent out last Year. - Eight Men making pafsages thro Snow for it would take up too much time to clear the Yard as formerly - as it is in drift alround nearly to the Tops of our Stockades. four acrofs Nelson River - two to the Eastward - Five in the Sick list - Rest variously employed clearing out ware Houses &c - Mr Thomas came home to see the Sick.
The Trading Indians of Friday went away - and told me I must not be displeased with them if they went to the French Traders (as they call the Canadians) to purchase Tobacco - as they could not Hunt without Smoaking - One Home Guard came in for Mr Thomas afsistance having burnt himself."

Mar. 30
" Wednesday Wind and Weather till Noon as yesterday afterwards fresh Gales NE Cloudy with thick drift.
Men and Sick nearly as before - The Cooper at times Raving Mad. - The Home Guard of yesterday went away."

Mar. 31
" Thursday Wind variable from N to W Clear & Cold
Carpenter began finer? Work at New York - Labourers clearing Snow from Buildings ? which is drifted nearly to the Tops of the Flankers - An old Native now on the Plantation tells me he has not seen the Snow so deep as it is at this time since the Winter after Governor Isham died."

Apr. 1 1797
" Friday Wind NW Early part of the day Cloudy & Cold afterwards Clear and Moderate.
Two Men an Dogs came from Nelson River Hunting Tent - Rest as before. - An Indian Home Guard came in for the Goose Hunt."

Apr. 2
" Saturday AM Cloudy with fresh Breezes Nly drifting Cold - PM Clear and Moderate.
The Eastern Hunters came home with their bedding having left their Tent at the Fourteens River for the Englishmen who will be sent there to serve out powder and Shot to the Goose Hunters. - Me Cook came from his Tent & returned. Rest of Men nearly as before."

Apr. 3
" Sunday Nly Breezes part Clear part Cloudy. The Nelson River Hunters went away. The Cooper very bad. Divine Service."

Apr. 4
" Monday Variable Breezes from N to W part Clear part Cloudy
Mr Thomas came to the factory to see the Sick - Cooper very Ill at times outrageous - Armourer mending Hunting Guns Craft Master making Sinnet - Rest of Men as last Week. - An Indian came in with a few Martin Skins which he Traded and went away."

Apr. 5
" Tuesday Light Breezes Nly Clear & Severe Cold towards Evening Light Airs SW moderately Mild.
Sent 11 Men with Large Sled acrofs the River to Haul home fire Wood cut down in 1785 - Mr Thomas went to his Tent which is removed from Nelson River to the back of this Island - Rest and Sick as before."

Apr. 6
" Wednesday Light Airs variable Clear moderate Weather.
Mefs Thomas & Cook came from their respective Tents and returned in the afternoon. - The Bricklayer came from? his Tent with his Bedding - Rest of Men as before. In the afternoon two families of Natives came in (for the Goose Hunt) paid Debt and Traded."

Apr. 7
" Thursday AM fresh Breezes Sly Cloudy & Thawing PM a strong Gale from the same Quarter with Rain which disolves the Snow fast. Men nearly as before. In the Evening two Indians arrived tolerably well Loaded with Furrs - brought Letters from James Spence - Two Englishmen [in the margin "Magnus Garston David Robinson"] accompanied them Distrefs for Provisions - obliged James Spence to send them to the Factory. for particulars I refer your Honors to his Letter - (vide Contry Correspondence)."

Apr. 8
" Friday Variable Light Breezes from SW to N Mild thawing weather - Snow disolves very rapidly - Much Water on the River Ice.
Mefs Thomas and Sutherland and Hunter came to the Factory with their Tent and Bedding - much tired. Too much water on the River Ice to work the large Sled. - Labourers variously Employed at New York. Tradesmen as before."

Apr. 9
" Saturday AM Cloudy and thick fogg Cold & freezing PM nearly as yesterday - Mens Employ the same. Mefs Cook and Whitford came from their Tent."

Apr. 10
" Sunday Moderate Gales E by N freezing cloudy weather - Natives of Thursday Traded. - Mefs Cook and Whitford went to their Tent."

Apr. 11
" Monday Wind as yesterday Weather at times Clear but severe Cold.
Tradesmen as last Week. - three Men afsisting David Thompson and self packing Goods for Inland - four Men in Sick list - rest conveying Goods up to New York as I am fearful of a heavy Deluge on the breaking up of the River Ice."

Apr. 12
" Tuesday AM Breezes Ely Clear & Cold PM Moderate with variable Winds.
Men nearly as yesterday. - Had all the Powder taken up to New York. - The Natives of Thursday last went away."

Apr. 13
" Wednesday Light Breezes Ely Moderate Clear Weather - Mens Employ nearly the same except Labourers employed taking the Inland Servants Chests up to New York."

Apr. 14
" Thursday Wind and Weather and Mens Employ the same."

Apr. 15
" Friday Wind and Weather the same. - Sent 12 Men with Large Sled loaded with Salt and Empty Hhds &c to the fourteens River in Readinefs for Salting of Geese. - Rest as before."

Apr. 16
" Saturday Wind and Weather as before and Mens Employ as on Thursday last except Bricklayer and two Men who set lime Kiln. - Mefs Cook and Whitford came home with their Tent and bedding.
Gave the Native the usual annual Treat prior to the Goose Hunt."

Apr. 17
" Sunday Light Breezes Sly part Clear part Cloudy very Mild and thawing - Divine Service."

Apr. 18
" Monday AM Light Breezes Sly Mild and Cloudy with Rain PM fresh Breezes Nly with Sleet & Snow Raw Cold.
The Cooper disordered in his mind unfit for Duty. The Smith and David Robinson in the Sick list very Ill. Rest of Tradesmen at their respective occupations. five Men afsisting David Thompson and Self Packing Trading Goods and Stores for Inland. Rest variously employed.
All the Natives pitched away to the fourteens River Goose Tent. - Twenty nine in Number among the whole only four hunters the rest are Invalids Women and Children."

Apr. 19
" Tuesday AM Light Airs W by S Clear Mild Weather. - PM Variable Light Airs Much Water on the River Ice.
Mens Employ nearly as before and Sick the same. A Swan seen to day."

Apr. 20
" Wednesday Variable Light Airs Clear. - AM Cold freezing Weather. PM Mild and Thawing.
Sent James Banks and James Oman to serve out Powder and Shot to Natives at the Fourteens River - Early in the Morning all hands employed hauling Sawed Stuff on large Sled from this Plantation to New York. Afterwards as on Monday last. Sick as before. James Hall added to the Sick List."

Apr. 21
" Thursday Strong Gales of Wind NE by E Cloudy Cold freezing Weather much water along shore.
Had Lime Kiln drawn and Lime taken up to New York. - Sick as before and mens Employ nearly the same till noon when the Ware Houses were opened for men to take such necefsaries they want - for the last time this Season."

Apr. 22
" Friday Variable Breezes from NE to N by W Cloudy with Hail Sleet and Snow - No Duty done by Men. Divine Service"

Apr. 23
" Saturday Strong Gales of Wind NW Cloudy with Hail and Snow - Cold freezing Weather. - Too bad Weather for the exercises of Small Arms gave the Men a holliday."

Apr. 24
" Sunday AM fresh Breezes variable Clear Sharp Weather - PM more moderate. Divine Service."

Apr. 25
" Monday AM Light Airs Variable Mild pleasant Clear Weather. - PM Cloudy
David Thompson with three Men afsisting me packing Goods for Inland - J Hall Carpenter, P Goudie Smith, James Grimbester Cooper and David Robinson in Sick list unfit for Duty. Rest of Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Two at the Goose Tent to the Eastward - Rest of Labourers Hauling plank and Boards from this Plantation to New York."

Apr. 26
" Tuesday Light Airs and Gentle Breezes variable Mild pleasant Weather
John Mellam Armourer added to the Sick list. Mr Sutherland and two Men drying and Sorting furs. Rest as before."

Apr. 27
" Wednesday Ely Breezes Cloudy and Raw Cold.
Mens Employ nearly as before and Sick the same except the Cooper who is on duty. - part of the Men whose daily businefs is at New York removed their Chests and Bedding there. - One Man came from the Fourteens Goose Tent for a few necefsaries."

Apr. 28
" Thursday AM Gales of Wind E by S Cloudy with Hail and Sleet and Snow alternately Raw Cold. PM Breezes SE with Sleet and Rain.
The Man who came from the fourteens Yesterday went to his Tent early. - All hands at this Factory variously employed in House - those at New York afsisting David Thompson and Self packing Trading Goods for Inland."

Apr. 29
" Friday Variable Breezes from E to N Cloudy with Rain Sleet and Snow alternately. Men as before."

Apr. 30
" Saturday AM fresh Breezes Nly Cloudy Sharp freezing Weather PM more mild with variable Light Airs.
All hands and Sick nearly as before. - Finished packing Trading Goods for Inland sufficient Cargoes for forty Canoes. - And as Mr Tomison desired before he left this place in the fall that neither the Swan River or Nelson packages? should be intermixed with his - I have had Bundles made up for each undertaking separately. - I have not attempted to pack any Brazil Tobacco which is left for Mr Tomisons examination - he is so very particular in this Article - no persons Judgement would be sufficient without his own inspection. - for was the quantity wanted Inland to be packed with the greatest care, it is ten to one but he would have every bundle opened and repacked again was it of ever so fine a quality. - I have seen this repeated so often it discourages me for forwarding the businefs for him."

May 1 1791
" Sunday pleasant Breezes Sly Clear Mild Weather.
Mefs Thomas and Sutherland set off to Ten Shilling Creek to Sleep out a few Nights to look for Game. Three Natives came from the fourteens Goose Tent for Provisions - Killed 2 Geese coming hither."

May 2
" Monday Breezes S by E Cloudy with heavy Showers of Rain much Water on the River Ice. - The Snow continues very Deep around that it is with difficulty the Men go to and from New York.
The Tradesmen who have been so long in the Sick List on duty as are the rest at their Respective occupations. - Labourers variously Employed at New York. - Mefs Thomas and Sutherland obliged to return on account of the large flowing Water on the River Ice.
Ducks an other Acquatic fowl made their appearance in great Numbers - a sure sign the River Ice upwards having given way - tho we have no signs at present near us."

May 3
" Tuesday AM Raw Cold with Nly Breezes and Cloudy PM more Clear towards Evening Sharp freezing Weather.
Mefs Thomas and Sutherland set off to Tent and hunt in the Marsh - One Man and Dogs afsisting them with their Tent Bedding and things. Rest as before.
In the Evening the South Channel of this River Ice gave way and much water run along shore."

May 4
" Wednesday A sharp frost last night with Nly Breezes. During this Night the River Ice gave way in many places abreast of New York - The main ? on this Channel remains firm. The South Channel abreast this Factory appears very rough and as the Water raises and falls alternately I am in hopes it has a clear pafsage to Sea. Four Men packing Furrs - Rest nearly as before."

May 5
" Thursday AM Raw Cold Cloudy and thick fogg with fresh Breezes variable PM Clear with Sly Breezes.
Early this Morning French Creek Ice broke up as did the South Channel below it and found a pafsage to Sea. - The Ice appears very rough on the Flats with a strong Current of Water thereon. - The main body of Ice on this Channel remains firm - tho the ground Ice along Shore has given way and carryed of by the rapid Current near the Bank.
Five Men preparing Sinnet and Rundlets for Inland. Tradesmen as before and Labourers variously Employed at New York."

May 6
" Friday AM Cold freezing Weather with Nly Gales cloudy and at times Snow. - PM Clear Sharp freezing Weather.
To bad Weather for Men to go to New York - variously employed removing Snow from Gardens which is in places from Ten to twelve feet Deep - River Ice as before."

May 7
" Saturday Clear Weather with Light Sly Breezes Mild and pleasant. - Men Employed as on Thursday. Sent a person to examine the Ice ? and? find? the Channel is much altered to former Years? as? the Current beyond the Mile Sand discharges itself acrofs the flats into the South Channel which from the rapidity of its Motion and large pieces of Ice it carries with it must be very deep. - Swallows with other Summer Birds made their appearance."

May 8
" Sunday Wind and Weather as yesterday till late in the afternoon when the Wind vered Nly and Cloudy. The Channel Ice as before."

May 9
" Monday Wind variable from N to E Clear. Showers of Rain in the Evening afterwards a severe frost. River Ice nearly the same.
Tradesmen at their respective occupations. - Five Men at Work for Inland. Two at the Goose Tent Fourteens River. - Mefs Thomas & Sutherland in the Marsh. three in the Sick list. Rest variously Employed at New York."

May 10
" Tuesday AM Sharp frosty Weather Nly Breezes and Cloudy. - PM Clear & Cold towards Evening Snow and freezing.
Mens Employ nearly as before. - Mr Thomas came to the factory to see the Sick and returned to his Tent. - Sent two people up this Island to examine the state of the River Upwards on their return reported that the Ice is very Rough & nearly to the Tops of the Banks and River ? from side to side. - About noon this Channel Ice gave way in many places - but remains firm below. - it being too strong at the Barr."

May 11
" Wednesday Nly Breezes part Clear part Cloudy Cold Weather. - River Ice upwards in motion several? times. - The main body of this Channel abreast the Factory as yesterday.
Mens Employ nearly as before."

May 12
" Thursday Variable Breezes from NW to E Cold freezing Weather. This Channel Ice gave way abreast the factory but the main body below remains firm. Sent two Men to the Marsh for Geese. rest as before."

May 13
" Friday AM stiff Breezes from NW to NE Cloudy with Snow sharp freezing Weather. - PM Clear and Cold Nly Breezes. - The River Ice in motion several times - The main body at the Battery Barr remains firm. ? open water above the Mile sand. - Six Men at work for Inland - rest as before."

May 14
" Saturday fresh Breezes Sly part Clear part Cloudy - at Noon a heavy Shower of Hail and Rain. afterwards Clear pleasant Weather till towards Evening when the Wind vered Nly sharp freezing Weather with Snow. River Ice pafsed and forced under the Main body which remains firm at the Batery Barr. Mens Employ nearly as before."

May 15
" Sunday AM pleasant Breezes Sly part Clear part Cloudy with Showers of Rain PM Clear with variable Strong Gales Nly very Cold and freezing - During last night the main body of Ice drove out to Sea and this morning we had a Clear Channel with much heavy Ice left along shore Islands and flats."

May 16
" Monday fresh Breezes variable N by E to E Cloudy and Cold towards Evening Snow with Sharp freezing Weather.
Mr Thomas came to the factory to see the Sick and returned with five Men and Boat - who brought a number of Geese from the Marsh - Rest of Men Employed as last Week."

May 17
" Tuesday Early AM fresh Breezes NE very Cold freezing Weather with light Snow and Cloudy. Afterwards? more moderate and Clear with variable Breezes from S by E to W by SE - Men as before."

May 18
" Wednesday Nly Breezes Severe Cold & freezing at times Snow - Cloudy - Men as before."

May 19
" Thursday Light Airs Ely pleasant weather towards Evening Wind vered Sly.
Mr Thomas came to the factory to see the Sick. Mens Employ nearly the same except three spinning Line for Tracking Inland Canoes."

May 20
" Friday A Strong Gale Sly Clear Weather.
Mr Thomas went to his Tent - Sent three Men in Boat for Geese. - Sett Snares in Deer Hedge - Rest of Men nearly as before."

May 21
" Saturday Light Breezes Nly Clear Weather. - Mens Employ nearly the same."

May 22
" Sunday fresh Breezes variable Ely part Clear part Cloudy - towards Evening Hail Snow and Rain alternately."

May 23
" Monday Light Airs and Gentle Breezes Sly Clear Weather - Mr Cook and Men set off to Tent and look for Deer in the plains? up this Island. - Sent five Men in the Marsh for Geese. - Cooper, Smith, Taylor and three Men at Work for Inland - Rest employed nearly as last Week. - Shores and flats loaded with Ice which prevents men going to Raft home Wood - Clouds of Smoak seen upwards occaisioned as we suppose from the Woods on fire up this River - Muskatoes made their appearance."

May 24
" Tuesday fresh Breezes Nly Raw Cold. - Sent three Men to set Nets in Ten Shilling Creek - Caught 6 Deer in Hedge. Mens Employ nearly as before."

May 25
" Wednesday Sharp freezing Weather all last night &? Snow which continued part of this day Cloudy & Cold Nly Breezes. Had porter taken from Winters Cellar. Men's Employ nearly as before. - two Deer from Hedge."

May 26
" Thursday Wind and Weather as yesterday. - Sent three Men to the Marsh for Geese - Rest as before."

May 27
" Friday Gales of Wind ENE Cold freezing Weather part Clear part Cloudy. - Early this morning sent three Men in Boat acrofs the River to the Fourteens Goose Hunters. three to Ten Shilling Creek to examine Nets and Deer Hedge and five to the Marsh for Geese - rest variously employed. - 1 Deer from Hedge and 2 Killed by Mr Cook." In the afternoon three Canoes of Home Guards arrived with good Trade? and 22 Deer brought down on Rafts - paid Debts."

May 28
" Saturday Heavy fall of Snow last night which continues this day very Cloudy Sharp freezing Weather Nly Breezes.
All hands salting Venison and Geese. - Mr Cook came to the Factory with his Tent and Bedding - Five Canoes of Home Guards arrived with Furrs and 15 Deer - paid Debts and Traded part and those of yesterday Traded remainder of their Furrs."

May 29
" Sunday Wind and Weather as yesterday till noon when it cleared up and became Calm.
The Natives of friday and yesterday finished Trade and set off to Hunt Geese in the Marsh . Sent Men and Boat to afsist with their families down. - In the Evening Mefs Thomas and Sutherland returned to the Factory with their Tent and Bedding having Killed 630? Geese this Spring."

May 30
" Monday AM fresh Breezes Sly Clear Weather PM Variable Breezes with Showers of Rain. Sixteen Men preparing for the Woods to morrow three Salting Geese &c. Tradesmen at Work for Inland."

May 31
" Tuesday Cloudy Sultry Weather with variable Light Airs Sly Showers of Rain.
Sent Sixteen Men to Raft home Timber and fire Wood. Three overhauling fishing Nets and Deer Hedge. - Rest as before."

June 1 1791
" Wednesday AM thick foggy Weather at? ten? a? squall? came on a strong Gale of Wind with very heavy Rains which continued the whole day very dark Cloudy weather.
Sent three Men to the Marsh for Geese. Rest as before."

June 2
" Thursday Cloudy Weather with Light Airs NE.
Sent five Men to repair Deer Hedge. - Rest as before. In the Evening 5 Canoes of Play Green Natives Arrived - one of whom lost his left hand by the bursting of a Gun he purchased last fall and the second time of his discharging his."

June 3
" Friday Variable Light Airs alround the Compafs. AM part Clear part Cloudy PM Heavy Rain Dark and Cold.
Men nearly as before. - Fifteen Canoes of Home Guards arrived well Loaded with Furs."

June 4
" Saturday Northerly Breezes Cold Cloudy at times sharp freezing Weather. - Never was such a continuance of Cold Weather known at this Season of the Year. - Snow is at this time in many places in our Gardens many feet Deep - they remain undug. therefore we cannot expect much produce from them this Summer - Employed with Natives the whole day - Men nearly as before."

June 5
" Sunday Wind NE Clear Cold Weather at times sharp and freezing - Engaged in Trading Room the whole day. In the afternoon five Canoes of Home Guards arrived."

June 6
" Monday fresh Breezes SE and Variable AM Clear PM Cloudy with Rain.
Sent three Men and two Indians in Boat to the Woods with provisions. - All hands at home engaged with Natives and on Inland Duty. - Rest as last Week. - Five Canoes of Play Green Natives arrived as did three Canoes of Bungees."

June 7
" Tuesday AM Light Airs Sly Sultry Warm Clear Weather PM Variable Breezes NE Cloudy and Cold with heavy Rain.
Sent four Men and three Indians acrofs the River to bring home Goose Hunters &c from the fourteens River - Geese killed by them 920 - The Indians also came from the Marsh having killed 239 - paid them for Hunting. - This has been the finest Season for Geese flying since my Residency. Rest Employed as yesterday."

June 8
" Wednesday AM Strong Gales Wly part Clear part Cloudy with Showers of Rain - PM Breezes from the same quarter Clear & pleasant.
All hands at home engaged with Natives - Drying furrs &c rest as before."

June 9
" Thursday AM fresh Breezes WSW with Showers of Rain PM wind varied Nly Clear & Cold.
Mens Employ nearly as before - All the Indians of the 2d and 6th Instant went away."

June 10
" Friday AM Light Airs SW Clear Warm Weather. PM variable Breezes Nly Raw Cold towards Evening Showers of Rain.
Early this Morning the two Englishmen came from the fourteens Goose Tent - part of the Men came from the Woods with 8 Rafts of Timber 4 Rafts of fire Wood an all the Sawed Stuff. Rest Employed as before.
All the Home Guard Natives, Invalids excepted went away after being trusted Summers Debts, part acrofs this River and part up Nelson River - to Kill Deer and Dry Venison for the Mens pafsage Inland."

June 11
" Saturday A Continual Rain all last night. AM Cloudy and Cold PM Clear & fine - Wind as before at times Showers of Rain.
Remainder of Men came home with five Rafts of fire Wood - Men employed part of the day carrying Wood up the Bank."

June 12
" Sunday Breezes Ely part Clear part Clouldy Weather."

June 13
" Monday Wind and Weather as yesterday towards Evening Squalls of Wind with heavy Showers of Rain. Bricklayer and Man plastering and Rough coating? Building at New York. all the rest engaged carrying wood up the Bank. - Saw a smoak at French Creek sent Men in Boat who returned with three families of Natives."

June 14
" Tuesday Squalls of Wind Ely Clear Weather AM afterwards Cloudy & blowing strong - All hands as before."

June 15
" Wednesday Variable Breezes W by S Sultry much heavy Rain last night. - AM Clear PM Cloudy.
Sent four Englishmen and three Indians to raft home firewood cut down by the latter at Ten Shilling Creek. - Bricklayer and afsistant as before - All the rest parbuncking Timber up the Bank at New York."

June 16
" Thursday AM fresh Breezes Nly Raw Cold Cloudy with Hail and Rain - PM Strong Gales with Hail Sleet and Snow excefsive Cold.
All hands as before till the Weather obliged them to leave off Work."

June 17
" Friday AM Breezes Nly Cloudy with Hail and Snow. - PM Clear pleasant Weather.
Men finished parbunckling Timber up the Bank at New York. - Two Indians Arrived with the flesh of a Deer - Two from Deer Hedge."

June 18
" Saturday A Sharp frost last night and early this Morning part Calm part Light Airs variable Sultry? Weather.
Had Shallop moored up River - part of Men packing furrs. four Rafting Wood at Ten Shilling Creek - Rest variously Employed. Three Canoes of North River Indians arrived very poor in Furrs. All Men."

June 19
" Sunday Variable Breezes from N to E part Clear part Cloudy. - The Natives of yesterday part paid Debt and Traded - others had not half sufficient furrs to pay what they owed me. - They say they did not know of Englishmen being up the North River till this Spring - that the Canadian Traders are so numerous no Indian can rest with his Family without having one or more of these people continually visiting them - and collecting the furs so soon as killed - Two Canoes of Natives came from the Eastward with Green Venison - One Deer from Hedge."

June 20
" Monday AM Light Airs and Gentle Breezes Sly Sultry. Muskatoes numerous - PM a fresh Gale Nly Raw Cold and Cloudy.
Two Men salting Venison five packing furrs four rafting Wood at Ten Shilling Creek. - Tradesmen at their respective occupations - rest variously engaged at New York. - Began fixing up Eastward? Flanker at New York. - The Natives from the Eastward (yesterday) went away."

June 21
" Tuesday Early fresh Breezes Ely afterwards Strong Gales from the same quarter very Cold with thick fogg.
Early this Morning James Spence and four Englishmen arrived from Split Lake accompanied by many Indians in two Large and ten Small Canoes with upwards of 1000 MB part of which are debts he collected for me. - The Natives has brought a few furs with them but I fear not sufficient to pay their Debts.
James Spence confirms the accounts of what the Indians told me on Sunday - that the Canadians are building a House at Duck Lake where I intended to have had one? errected last fall it being a Centrical Spot where many Indians Winter and the most plentifully supplied with Game of any other up that Track.
The lofs the Honble Company has sustained this year by those enterprizing Traders is great and might be set down at four or five thousand Beaver at the lowest calculation - All which might have been prevented had not such unfair and ungenerous steps been pursued in the fall to prevent men from going up the North River - It is now out of my power to send Englishmen back to the Split Lake for want of Steersmen to Manage? Canoes - all those who went up last fall were the refuse of Inland - James Spence only excepted and tells me neither of the men who accompanied him are able to return except John Allan Taylor - none of the other men are able to undergo the fatigues of the Journey. Men Employed as yesterday."

June 22
" Wednesday Gale Continues with very heavy Rain Cold and uncomfortable. - Men variously Employed in House - part restretching and Drying Skins (wetted yesterday) The Weather proving so unfavorable this Spring greatly retards our buildings - Scarsely three days free from Rain Hail and Snow for these two Months past."

June 23
" Thursday AM Strong Gales Wly Cloudy and Cold with Heavy Rain. - PM more Clear.
Early this morning Mr Isham and J. Bird? Writer accompanied by 7 Englishmen and Canadians? - arrived in four large Canoes from Swan River with a Cargo of upwards of 2300 MB. - Mr Isham tells me he sent two Men in a large Canoe to Cumberland House to afsist Mr Tomison down with Furrs? - and left three Men up to take charge of the House &c - He also tells me the Natives are numerous around him - and that he expects to? make a good Trade the next year. - He says that no lefs than five Canadian Houses are near where he wintered - who are gone down to their great Mart? with very large Cargoes of Furrs. - Also informs me that 9 Canoes of Natives are coming from that Quarter with Furs - part of whom he was oblige to engage to afsist him on account of his being so weakly manned. - Mr Isham brought a few debts owing me.
The Men came from Ten Shilling Creek - but the Wind is too much against them to bring acrofs the Rafts. - Rest nearly as before."

June 24
" Friday fresh Breezes Ely Cold and Cloudy with thick Fogg.
Sent 9 Men and three Indians to fetch home Rafts of fire wood left at TenShilling Creek yesterday. - part returned in the Evening - Rest nearly as before except the Cooper who is at times outrageous.
Indians of Tuesday paid Debts and Traded and in the afternoon a Musqua Rat River Chief came in very poor in furrs - he had only one follower - who came without a single Skin in his Canoe. - notwithstanding he is Debtor in York Books 40 Beaver. - They tell me the Canadians - are continually at their Tents with Liquor and Collects the furrs from them so soon as Killed."

June 25
" Saturday Strong Gales Ely Cold Clear Weather.
Remainder of Men came from Ten Shilling Creek with Rafts of Fire Wood left yesterday. - Had Brandy and Powder Rundlets filled for Inland Trade. The Insane state of the Cooper has been and continues a great hinderance to Inland businefs - Not having any Rundlets sent out last year as usual - obliged me to have a great number made - some of which are so leaky I am fearful we shall sustain great lofs of Liquor. - Tradesmen as before - Had a few furrs packed."

June 26
" Sunday fresh Breezes ? Cold Clear Weather.
Engaged with Natives and preparing Goods for Inland. Mr Cook and one Man getting things in readinefs to set off up Nelson River with Indians."

June 27
" Monday Wind and Weather the same.
Tradesmen as last Week - part of Men packing Furrs and part carrying Wood up the bank afsisted by Indians."

June 28
" Tuesday Wind and Weather and Mens Employ the same - Mr Isham packed ? Furrs? - Many of the Indians of the 18th 21st and 24th set off with Trading Goods up Nelson River - others preparing their things ready to leave the factory with Mr Cook."

June 29
" Wednesday Wind NE Weather the same
This morning the remainder of Indians mentioned yesterday set off. three excepted who remain to pilot Mr Cook up Nelson River.
About 4 AM Mefs Tomison and Walker accompanied by 62 Men and many Indians arrived in Twenty four Large Canoes with a fine Cargo of furs. - I never yet saw Canoes better manned on leaving the Factory than they were on their arrival which enabled Mr Tomison to bring down two Bundles of Furrs additional in each Canoe more than their usual Cargo. At the same time Indians arrived in ? Large and one Small Canoe - Also nine Canoes of Natives came in with Furrs intrusted to their care by Mr Isham from Swan River.
All the Home Guard Natives Invalids excepted pitched away acrofs the River. - Men variously Employed."

June 30
" Thursday Calm fine Weather - Three Men making Inland Tracking Line. rest variously engaged. a few of those from Inland packing furrs. - An Indian Man drowned near the old Battery House. Four Canoes of Indians arrived well Loaded with Furrs."

July 1 1791
" Friday Light Airs Sly part Clear part Cloudy and Sultry. Muskatoes numerous and troublesome.
All Hands as before - except James Hall - who like an Indian, while Liquor is stirring, never can do duty which is - and has been a great hinderance to our buildings.
Mr Cook and James Batt accompanied by three Natives set off on their Journey up Nelson River to procure provisions for Mens Winter supply and take in charge many Bundles of Trading ? Goods sent off by Natives - and as he has no Brandy with him except sufficient to procure necefsaries on his Journey I hope he will arrive safe to where James Spence Wintered."

July 2
" Saturday Wind variable. Weather nearly the same with Showers of Rain - towards evening much heavy Rain.
Four Canoes of Home Guards came in with a large supply of Green and Dryed Venison. - Sent 7 Men in Boat to the Fourteens River for several deer killed last night by my? Indian Hunters. Rest employed as before.
Inland Men very impertinent and disorderly and as it appears to every? one here - they are encouraged therein. - Indeed from what I learn from Mr Walker and Mitchael Oman that since the fall of the year after Mr Tomisons arrival at the respective Houses Inland - the Men became so disorderly that they could not get duties executed without much trouble. - which determines them both to go to England and lay their complaints before your Honors. - Stopped the allowance of Brandy."

July 3
" Sunday Clear fine Weather with variable gentle Breezes Sultry - towards Evening Thunder Lightening and Rain.
The Natives of the 30th Ult. paid Debts and Traded. Two Canoes of Home Guards arrived with Green Venison - And the Men (sent yesterday) returned from the fourteens River with two Casks of Salted Geese and the Flesh of 8 Deer."

July 4
" Monday Variable Light Airs. - AM cloudy with Showers of Rain - PM more Clear Sultry and flys numerous. - Mens Employ nearly as last Week."

July 5
" Tuesday Light Airs and gentle Breezes variable Clear sultry Weather flys numerous and troublesome.
Had all the Inland furrs that are packed - taken to New York. - Lime Kiln set - also the fishing Nets. Rest as before. The Natives of the ? Ult went away. - Smoaked the? Calumet with the Swan River and other Indians who came down with Mr Tomison. The former Traded? a few Furrs."

July 6
" Wednesday AM variable Light Airs and gentle Breezes Sly Cloudy and Sultry Muskatoes numerous and troublesom. PM fresh Breezes NE Clear & fine.
Factory Men variously employed on Inland Duties. Men from the Upper Settlements packing furrs - An Indian Woman stabbed herself in a fit of Jealousy."

July 7
" Thursday NE Breezes part Clear part Cloudy.
Employment of Men nearly as before. Paid Natives for bringing furrs from the upper Settlements and for taking Trading Goods thither.
Called a Council and acquainted Men - your honors determination on their Resolves. - Out of thirty Men whose times expire this year only these entered into Contracts. viz. John Irvin Steersman and Canoe Builder, James Tate Steersman and the? Summer Master at Manchester - and Magnus Spence Steersman - Seven other promise to give their answers tomorrow. - They appear this year to make a higher demand of Wages than any preceeding one - and it is evident a Combination is entered into among the whole. - But what is still more extraordinary most of them are inclinable to return for two years only - that all their times might expire at once. - and as the chief part are Steersmen - they suppose their leaving the Service all at once it will greatly distrefs the Inland Trade - if not totally stop it-
Three Canoes of Home Guard Natives Arrived with Dryed and Green Venison which they Traded and went away."

July 8
" Friday Breezes SE part Clear part Cloudy
Men variously engaged - Swan River Natives ? out 18 Bundles of Trading Goods - to take with them for Mr Isham.
At a Council this day the following Men entered into Contract - James Spence Sen., James Flett Sen.?, Anthony Godda (a Canadian) Steersmen - and Nichl Allan Sen.? Bowsman - John Flett and William return Inland till the Honble Company determines their qualifications as Canoe Builders they having built one this Season. - Perrenee and Francis Mewitt? returns Inland till the Honble Company determination is received on their Resolves of last year - Charles Alurie - alias Tuffeldelaire also returns Inland at his old Wages - Sixteen others whose times expire positively refuse going Inland without advance of wages for a longer term than two Years - and had not the Majority of this Council took up the matter - I am of opinion the same methods would have been pursued as formerly - as most of them wanted to return Inland for that period only.
A large quantity of Brazil Tobacco, Condemned and Thrown into the River being unfit to be offered to an Indian - I know not the Weight as Mr Tomison had the Collecting the best and condemned that which was bad and sent it by his Men to the Boat."

July 9
" Saturday Variable Light Airs and gentle Breezes Sultry Weather towards Evening Thunder & Lightening Muskatoes troublesome.
Factory Men variously employed on Inland Duties and those from the upper Settlements packing Tobacco.
Two Canoes of Home Guard Natives arrived with dryed venison which they Traded and went away. Part of the Natives who arrived the 29th Ult. set off with Trading Goods for Mr Isham. - An Indian came to beg provisions - and brought a note from Mr Cook."

July 10
" Sunday Variable Light Airs and gentle Breezes Calm? Sultry Weather.
The Natives who came with Mr Tomison with the remainder of the Swan River Indians set off with Trading Goods Inland - One Indian Chief much burnt remains at the Factory under Mr Thomas care."

July 11
" Monday Light Breezes NE thick foggy Weather the early part of the day - latter part Clear and fine.
- All hands variously engaged in Inland Duties. - Inland Men packing Tobacco. - Mr William Walker intended for England till this day - when Mr Tomison prevailed on him to return Inland and promised to recommend to your honors - to succeed in the command Inland at the Expiration of his Contract in 1793 - On these conditions Mr Walker is making preparations to return Inland."

July 12
" Tuesday Early AM Light Airs variable and Sultry afterwards fresh Breezes NE foggy and Cold.
Mens Employ nearly as before. Had remainder of Inland Furs removed from this Factory to the Ware Houses at New York - Mr Tomison having overhauled all the Brazil Tobacco and collected 1406 lbs from the whole to take with him. - He condemned the rest as unfit to be offered to an Indian - Many hundred Weight was thrown into the River.
The remainder of Natives intrusted with Furrs from Cumberland arrived, and part of those who set of on Sunday returned to the Factory to Drink with their friends."

July 13
" Wednesday fresh Breezes NE Cloudy ? ? thick fogg ? Heavy Rain.
Too bad weather to Work out variously employed in House. - Overhauling Guns and Kettles from Inland and notwithstanding only 40 Guns were wanted (and? ? was found among the loose ones) no lefs than eleven Chests were opened before a sufficient quantity could be found for Mr Tomison use only. - for these five Years past there has not been a Gun Chest opened for the factory Trade - but Natives have been always supplied from those which have been left from the Inland Pickings. - Not but here are? as? good? Guns left as are taken Inland and I confefs the best Articles should be taken for that Trade were not advantages taken - for I have felt myself hurt on hearing Indians told ? at the Factory - if they wanted good Goods they must go to the Settlements Inland - for there was none but Rubbish left after Inland was served - And Indians has been drawn Inland to Trade when they had taken up Debt here - with an Intention to bring the Furrs to the Factory. This was corroborated by Natives this Year."

July 14
" Thursday AM Stiff Breezes NE Cloudy PM variable Light Airs and Clear.
Sent three Men up the River to look for Deer. Took all able Hands from Factory Duty to prepare for Inland - and those who refuse the Honble Companys terms put on the Factory Duty - Rest variously employed on Inland businefs which goes on very Tedious."

July 15
" Friday Wind nearly the same with Showers of Rain. Sultry and Muskatoes Numerous.
Began making foundation for Launch at New York - Others variously Employed. - Served out Men going Inland Articles from the Ware House."

July 16
" Saturday Wind Sly Weather the same and Mens Employ as before. - It gives me concern to see? the backwardnefs of Inland businefs - as our stock of provisions is running very low - and having such a number of Men at the Factory makes it very expensive to your Honors - And notwithstanding our great want of fresh provisions the Men from Inland refuse going to Haul the Seine for Fish unlefs I went and worked with them. - Indeed part appear to do as they please and command whom they please - and are encouraged therein and as I am well informed they were all promised Inland that the Ware Houses here should be opened when they pleased and take what they had a mind without asking permifsion from me. - I found things going on in a strange Manner for ? a few days after their arrival and every article would been expended in a short time - this obliged me to give orders to the Steward not to deliver out any Article whatever to the Men without my knowledge - and had it not been for the spririted exertions of the majority of the Council I do not know where it would have ended."

July 17
" Sunday Very sultry with Breezes SSW flys very numerous & troublesome.
Served? out Bundles of Trading Goods to Natives to take to the upper Settlements. - paid them for Carrage. - The Men I sent up the River Hunting on Thursday last returned - no luck."

July 18
" Monday Breezes Variable from N to S hazzy part of the day - part Clear and Sultry Flys numerous towards Evening heavy Rain with Tremendious Thunder and Lightening.
Men variously Employed on Inland Duties. Part of the Indians who brought furrs from the Upper Settlements - Set off on their return up Nelson River Track and took 21 Bundles of Trading Goods with? them? Three? Canoes? of? Home? Guard? Natives arrived with Dryed and beat Meat which? they? traded? and went away.
An Indian Youth apparently drowned (being under Water upwards of half an Hour) after a succefsful ? of three hours Mr Thomas returned him to life - He followed the directions recommended by the Humane Society."

July 19
" Tuesday SW Breezes part Clear part Cloudy towards Evening heavy Rain with Thunder and Lightening.
Twenty Six Men preparing to leave the Factory others preparing Canoes. - Rest of Mr Ishams packing Tobacco for Swan River from the refuse of Mr Tomison - Mr Isham wanted to pack up his Tobacco before but I would not permit him as it might have caused some Words - and as he could not set off on his return before Mr Tomisons Arrival for want of Men - I concluded it would be no hinderance or delay to him as I judged he would have had an equal Share of that which was collected from the damaged Tobacco.
Two Canoes of Home Guard Natives arrived with Dryed Meat and Deer Skins which they Traded and went away. - They informed me they found the body of a Man in a European Drefs at Crofs Creek last night - Sent three Men in a Canoe to examine the Drowned person and burry it - Rest of Men variously Employed."

July 20
" Wednesday Early AM Light Airs variable afterwards a Gale of Wind NE Rain with Thunder and Lightening at a distance.
The Men I sent last night to Crofs Creek returned early this Morning - They tell me the person found drowned they suppose from his drefs and appearance to be William Moore one of the three Men who were unfortunately lost? from? the? Ship with the long Boat? last September and notwithstanding the space of time elapsed since - the body remained entire and flesh firm? - they burried the Corpse and brought home his Sleve Buttons? and Shoe Buckles - which I intend to shew his Ship Mates in case any of them comes out this Season - It is conjectured that the body of the unfortunate Man froze to a piece of Ice which preserved it so long entire - and the late Gales of Wind drove it on shore. - Some Indians who arrived this day tells me part of a very large Boat or Vefsel is drifted on Shore on this side of Cape Tatnum - and part about a days Journey beyond it. - And that the Eastern Shore is at this time Loaded with heavy Ice.
Two Young Lads arrived with Letters from Severn."

July 21
" Thursday Variable Breezes from the NW Quarter at times Gusts of Wind with heavy showers of Rain. Laid out remainder of Canoes Cargoes in order to afsist in the quantity of Trading Goods to be taken Inland in order to make up Invoice for Mr Tomison - Men variously Employed. - Three of the Indians who set off the ?th Instant with Trading Goods returned to the Factory for a supply of Brandy - The two Lads who came last night with Letters returned to their friends acrofs the River. - Two Canoes of Home Guards arrived with Dryed Meat which they Traded and went away."

July 22
" Friday Breezes variable from W to N Cloudy foggy Weather with Mizzling Rain.
This days Tide Mr James Bird Writer with twenty four Englishmen afsisted by Indians Embarked in 8 Large Canoes for the Upper Settlements - Others are preparing to leave the Factory tomorrow - Men variously Employed - Two Canoes of Home Guards arrived with Dryed Meat which they Traded and went away."

July 23
" Saturday Nly Breezes Cloudy and ? foggy? with Mizlling Showers of Rain.
During the Night Magnus Spence Steersman came to the factory unable to proceed on his Journey occaisioned by one of his Canoe Mates John Forbest falling Ill - Alex Corrigal engaged to supply his room - And set off with 22 Englishmen afsisted by Indians in 8 large Canoes - James Davey and Andrew Flett entered into Contract this Morning. - James Morrowick also returned Inland this day - on which terms I know not neither did I know of his going Inland till late last Night - It is highly necefsary that your honors should be informed that this person (James Morrowick) appears the principal Ringleader in standing out for advance of Wages and he mentioned before the Council that he had made an Oath inland with many others not to Return without he received that advance - And it was the intention of the Majority to send him to England as an Example to others. - And I was surprized when I heard of his? getting? things in readinefs to return Inland."

July 24
" Sunday Pleasant Breezes S by E Clear Weather
Early this Morning Mefs Tomison and Walker accompanied by 6 Men in two Canoes set off Inland - And I have to Observe that John Forbest was taken with them this morning as an Extra hand to prevent (for no other reason can be given) his accompaning James Spence up the North River.
In the afternoons Tide Mr Isham accompanied by 14 Men in 5 Large Canoes Embarked for Swan River - JP Whitford is gone to that Settlement in room of James Bird writer taken by Mr Tomison to Manchester
- The Indian mentioned the 10th Instant having returned set of in a small Canoe and took two bundles of Trading Goods for Mr Isham.
Two of Mr Ishams Canoe Cargoes - as I hear? to? be left on a Carrying place on Cedar Lake four days Journey on this side of Swan River House while? all the Canoe Builders and other principal hands are to leave him and winter at the other Settlements - How he is to get his Furrs down I know not next Season as only two Steersmen are to be left with him - and all the young hands from the factory - one only excepted (and he worth any two of the others at labour) are placed at Swan River. - When the five Men that are to Winter at Swan River heard that the Goods were to be left at so great distance from the House and they have the trouble of conveying it thither it caused a universal discontent and Murmuring this morning - and they declared they would not touch it unlefs it was carryed over the Carrying place - which I find is the longest and worst known by any of the Englishmen - therefore to satisfy them I gave Mr Isham the following written Order viz.

York Factory Hudson Bay
24 July 1791
It is ordered that all those Men appointed for the Upper Settlements - who take Goods for Mr Isham for Swan River Settlement that they convey all the Cargo they have in charge up over the Long Carrying place from Cedar Lake otherwise they will have to answer for their Conduct to the Committee of the Honble Hudson Bay Company.
Jos. Colen
Thomas Thomas

Factory? Men? taken? Inland? this? year? are James Oman ? ? Will.? Budge? ? Gunn? John Gunn? William Sinclair Magnus Halcro and Magnus Cooper - these last five are placed? at Swan River and all the able hands taken from thence?
Men left down are William Folster Steersman Nichl Leigh and John Mowatt? Middleman Ill under the Surgeons care - Andrew Davey George Short and Magnus Tate? Steersmen. David Copeland, John Stickler and Hugh Folster Bowsman whose times Expire this Season and will not agree to your honors terms - Also Mit. Oman Master of Cumberland House who intends for England - All my intreaties would not prevail on Mr Tomison to leave Hands to go up the Horth River and the Man brought back Ill, recovering he took him away to prevent his going with James Spence - Notwithstanding I pictured to him the lofs the Honble Company Sustains Annually at the lower Settlements by having Canadians near the Coafts - and ? ? ? of Mr Cook and Man up there with him - it had no effect and further said he should be sorry to leave any Man for that Journey who was worth taking Inland - He has such antipathy to James Spence that he treated with the greatest Contempt while at the factory because he did not accompany him up last fall. In short I see very plainly - that no Settlement is regarded - or any attention paid but that of Manchester which has the best of Goods and Men and all others must be supplied from its leavings. I hope your Honors will pardon me for speaking my sentiments so freely - in doing which I do no more than my duty - Mr Walker declared he should speak his sentiments to your honors - and Mefs Thomas and Sutherland declares it will be impofsible to carry on businefs Inland to that extent your honors wish unlefs some steps are taken to regulate it. for altho your honors Orders are exprefsive and to the purpose - yet every method has been taken to break thro them in the most Arbitrary manner. - Last year it was with pleasure I mentioned that it was the most pleasant and greeable time I had seen of Men being at the factory from Inland - I will pronounce this to have been the most disagreeable one. - As things has turned out I am very sorry I sent off Mr cook for I know not how I shall be able to get up Canoes to supply him with Brandy and Powder for Trade.
Many Home Guard Natives came from the Eastward with a few Deer Skins Dryed and Beat Meat which they Traded - An Indian left by Mr? Tomison? very Ill."

July 25
" Monday AM Squals of Wind fine and Clear PM Calm and Cloudy.
Prepared Letters for Churchill and Severn Settlements. Men variously engaged - Sent five Men to bury the Corpse of an Indian drifted on Shore below the Old Battery House. - they afterwards crofsed the River in Boat and brought over a number of Home Guard Natives - many also arrived in Canoes with a few Deer Skins &c &c with which they paid Debts & Traded."

July 26
" Tuesday Cloudy foggy cold? Weather with Northerly Breezes at times Mizzling Rain.
Men nearly as before. - Asked all the Men who stay from Inland if they would accept the Honble Companys terms and go up the North River with Goods - but they positively refused except Magnus Tate - part of the rest told me they would go on the same terms they accompanied Mr Tomison last fall but not otherwise.
- Mitchael Oman voluntarily offered to conduct a Canoe up to where James Spence Wintered take a Cargo of Goods and return in time for the Ship - Ordered all those on duty - from Inland to get themselves ready to accompany him."

July 27
" Wednesday A Sharp frost last night and this morning. - Light Airs variable Clear Weather
Mitchael Oman, James Spence and others getting three Canoes ready to go up Nelson River - others variously engaged.
Sent off two Indians with a Packet to Churchill and delivered Letters for Mr Ballanden to some Severn Indians - and in order to get them off this plantation - desired? they would be as expeditious as pofsible in delivering the Letters before the Sloop sailed for that Settlement."

July 28
" Thursday AM gentle Breezes SW Clear & Warm PM fresh Breezes Ely Cloudy.
By perserverance I have at last got a sufficient number of Men with the afsistance of two Indians to Man three Canoes up the North River - Had Canoes Mended and pitched - Alloted out Cargoes and served out provisions - Rest of Men variously employed.
Trusted a few Home Guard Natives Winters Debt."

July 29
" Friday AM pleasant Breezes NE Clear Weather PM blowing strong Nly Cloudy thick fog.
Men employed as before - Natives taking (Debt) up Goods on Credit"

July 30
" Saturday Light Airs and Gentle Breezes SE Clear pleasant Weather.
About 2 AM Eight Englishmen (as pr Margin) afsisted by two Indian Home Guards - Embarked in three large Canoes to settle a House on the Banks of the Duck Lake or Grafs River. - Mitchael Oman's conduct is highly praiseworthy as he voluntarily offered to conduct Canoes up with the afsistance of Men - and return to this Factory with those who wish? to go to England in time for the Ship. - In consequence of his offer I sellected out a sufficient number of Able hands to man three Canoes and when they found it was my determination to strike them off duty if they disobeyed orders part reluctantly complied. - And this morning Andrew Davey and David Copeland just before they embarked agreed to stay with Mr Cook and afsist building a house on your honors terms. And as time would not admit them to sign Contracts this? morning - I shall send some already filled up to Mr Cook that they may execute them before him.
Had Beacons made and Buoys got ready to set on Monday. - Rest of Men variously employed preparing foundations for ? Launch and upper Hoist which is a laborious Work as we have to cut thro a solid Rock (as it were) of Ice nearly 60 feet in length and twenty five feet Deep.
Thirteen Canoes of Home Guard Natives set off to their Winters Quarters and in the Evening four Canoes of Home Guards arrived with a few Deer Skins."
[In the margin-
"James Spence
Mit. Oman
James Banks
And. Davey
David Copeland
John Allan
Mag. Garston
Mag. Tate &c
2 Indians."]

July 31
" Sunday AM pleasant Breezes variable Wly Clear and fine PM Cloudy with Showers of Rain. - Traded with Natives who arrived yesterday."

Aug. 1 1791
" Monday Light Airs and gentle Breezes N by W about noon Showers of Rain and Cloudy. latter part of the day fine and Clear. - Much heavy Ice appeared in the offing. - In the Evening much heavy Rain.
Sent Seven Men in Yawl to set five fathom Sand Beacon - they afterward went to the fourteens River and brought home the remainder of Salted Geese - Tradesmen overhauling Tools. Began taking Stock - find [blank] MBeaver Traded since the Departure of the Ship last Season. - This Includes what was Traded up Nelson River."

Aug. 2
" Tuesday AM Clear warm weather with Wly Breezes PM Cloudy and Variable.
Had double headed Beacon set - Rest of Men Employed Cleaning and over hauling Ware Houses."

Aug. 3
" Wednesday Strong Gales of Wind NW with heavy Rain. A very high tide this day as to raise the water in the River 10 feet perpendicular. Men variously Employed in House."

Aug. 4
" Thursday Clear fine Weather with Ely Breezes.
Part of the Men collecting Old Bricks from this place to New York - others rafting Timber and Logs &c. Tradesmen at their respective occupations."

Aug. 5
" Friday part Calm part light Airs variable AM Cloudy with gentle Showers of Rain PM Clear Late in the Evening Thunder and Lightening.
Sent five Men in Yawl to set Buoys and Sound the Channel of the River which is much altered - two laying up Inland Canoes. rest variously Employed."

Aug. 6
" Saturday pleasant Breezes NE fine and Clear
Mens Employ nearly the same. - Trusted part of the remaining Home Guards Winters Debts and one Canoe set off."

Aug. 7
" Sunday fresh Breezes NE by E Cold & Cloudy
The Indian Man left by Mr Tomison died this Morning. - Four Canoes of Home Guard Natives set off to their Winters quarters. - and several others took debt."

Aug. 8
" Monday Light Breezes Ely Clear pleasant Weather. - Tradesmen at their respective occupations. - Labourers variously Employed at New York. - Seven Canoes of Home Guard Natives set off to their Winter Quarters."

Aug. 9
" Tuesday Light Breezes S by E Clear & fine
Men variously Employed. - Began putting up Old Launch. not that it will be required to Land any of the Cargo from the Ship but it will be found very convenient for the removal of many heavy Articles from this place to New York where I hope we shall all reside in a short time."

Aug. 10
" Wednesday Wind and Weather and Mens Employ the Same. In the Evening a home Guard Native and family arrived with a few Deer Skins and Dryed Meat."

Aug. 11
" Thursday AM Wind and Weather as yesterday very sultry with Thunder at a distance. - PM variable pleasant Breezes NE.
Shipwright and Sailors preparing things ready on board the Shalop to Drop down to five fathom Hole and getting small Craft ready. - four Men packing a few Skins - the rest variously Employed at New York - The Natives of last Night paid Debts and Traded."

Aug. 12
" Friday Variable Light Airs. - AM Cloudy & Sultry. PM very heavy Rain with Thunder and Lightening.
Mens Employ nearly as before. - The Indians I sent to Churchill the 27th Ult. returned with a packet from that Settlement. - Seven Canoes of North River Natives arrived part brought nearly 265 Beaver of Furrs from Mr Cook -(vide Country Correspondence)"

Aug. 13
" Saturday a strong Gale of Wind NNE Cloudy with heavy Rain - Too bad Weather to work out. Men variously employed in House. This Morning the Severn Sloop hove in sight and soon after (as the tide served) came abreast the factory - and Mr Moore Landed with a Packet from Mr Ballanden in which were Letters from Albany."

Aug. 14
" Sunday Wind and Weather the same. The Double Headed Beacon carried away."

Aug. 15
" Monday AM fresh Breezes Nly Clear & pleasant PM Cloudy and Calm.
Carpenters Bricklayers and Sawyers at Work at New York - Shipwright and Sailor getting ready Craft. - Armourer Smith and Taylor at work for Trade - The rest variously engaged.
Several Natives took up Debt and in the afternoon five Canoes of Play Green Indians arrived with Furrs Dryed Meat & fat."

Aug. 16
" Tuesday Much heavy Rain fell last night Variable light Breezes Clear
Had Double Headed Beacon made and put on board the Severn Sloop for the Sailors to set when they go down. Mens Employ nearly the same."

Aug. 17
" Wednesday Stiff Breezes SE and variable to S by W part Clear part Cloudy.
Delivered Mr Moore his Signal Instructions on the approach of a Vefsel. - Mens Employ nearly as before - The Natives of Monday Traded and Trusted Winters Debt."

Aug. 18
" Thursday AM Wind and Weather as yesterday - PM Cloudy and Sultry towards Evening much Thunder Lightening & Rain.
This Mornings Tide the Severn Sloop dropt down to five fathom Hole. - Sent Six Men to raft home fire Wood as usual for the Captain. Rest employed nearly as before. - The Natives of the 12th and 15th Instant went away. - and the remaining home Guards were trusted winters Debt."

Aug. 19
" Friday SW Breezes part Clear part Cloudy and Sultry - Mens Employ nearly as before.
The Home Guards mentioned yesterday set off to their Winters Quarters."

Aug. 20
" Saturday AM Light Airs and gentle Breezes Sly part Clear and part Cloudy. PM Cloudy with Rain and Thunder at a distance very Sultry.
Early this Morning Mitchael Oman, James Banks and the two Indian Pilots returned from the North River - having left the Goods they had in Charge where James Spence Wintered - Magnus Garston returned with them unable to pursue his Journey - at the same time three Canoes of Natives arived (with a Letter from Mr Cook - vide Country Correspondence) James Batt accompanied them being unable to do any the least duty - having a Veneral Disorder which obliged him to come to the Factory for Mr Thomas' afsistance. - Mr Cook has only five Men with him
Sent Seven Men for the Skin and fatt of a ? (killed yesterday) and the Blubber of a Whale drifted on shore at the point of Marsh - The Men I sent to the Woods on Thursday returned with two large rafts of Poplar. - Rest employed nearly as before."

Aug. 21
" Sunday AM Breezes Nly Cloudy with Rain - PM more Clear. - Engaged with Natives and packing Goods for the North River."

Aug. 22
" Monday Light Airs and gentle Breezes variable Nly part Clear part Cloudy . - In the Evening much heavy Rain.
Six Men carrying Wood up the Bank. Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Rest variously employed. - Began making a Crane to raise up goods at the Upper Hoist at New York. - The Natives of Saturday went away sent six Bundles of Trading Goods by them up Nelson River. - and those who accompanied Mitchael Oman as Pilots took up Debt & set off to their Winters Quarters."

Aug. 23
" Tuesday AM Breezes Wly Cloudy with Showers of Rain. PM fine and Clear Nly Breezes.
Men variously Employed at New York."

Aug. 24
" Wednesday Variable Breezes from N to E clear. Mens Employ as before. - Two Home Guard Natives came in with the flesh of three Deer which they Traded and went away."

Aug. 25
" Thursday AM Light Airs Sly Clear & Sultry PM fresh Gales NE by E Raw Cold and Cloudy.
Mens Employ the same."

Aug. 26
" Friday Gale Continues with greater Violence heavy Rain and Cloud - PM Rain abated and Wind more moderate - Men variously employed in House - In the Evening three families of Musqua Rat River Natives came in (having left their Canoes at Flambro) with about 40 MB in summer furrs and Deer Skins. not one third sufficient to pay their Debts - they repeat the old story that Canadians are near their Wintering Ground and collect the furs from them so soon as the Animals are killed."

Aug. 27
" Saturday A severe frost last and early this morning - all the standing water near covered with sheets of Ice - AM Calm and Clear. - PM Cloudy with showers of Rain - Mens Employ as before."

Aug. 28
" Sunday Breezes NW part Clear part Cloudy.
The natives of Friday last went away."

Aug. 29
" Monday Variable Breezes alround the Compafs part Clear part Cloudy - Had the Seine hauled in various parts of the River no luck. - Rest of Men nearly as last Week."

Aug. 30
" Tuesday Wind Variable NE clear Weather a sharp frost last night - Sent ten Men up the River to haul the Seine - no luck. - and notwithstanding we have had many Nets set in various parts of the River from Dram Gut to the point of Marsh which is 10 Miles distance (from one to the other) we have not caught twenty fish this Summer - Rest of Men as before.
A Musqua Rat River Native came in wretchedly poor in furrs having only three Beaver and two Deer skins. - This man repeats the same tale many others hath done, and says I must never expect any of his Country Men to come down and pay their Debt owing me unlefs Englishmen are sent among them for the Canadian Traders are so numerous they collect the Skins from them as soon as the animals are brought to the Tents. - I have prevailed on this person to stay till the Arrival of the Ship which will enable me to determine if I can send people into the Musqua Rat Country next year."

Aug. 31
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as yesterday till Noon when it very? Ely and came on a thick fogg. Men Variously Employed. - This Morning a signal was hoisted on board the Severn Sloop of a Vefsel being in the Offing and soon after the Queen Charlotte Anchored in five fathom Hole - at Noon Capt Turnor landed and delivered Duplicate packet from England - Sent down Shallop to the Ship. Three Canoes of Natives arrived with a few Summer furrs & Dryed Meat."

Sept. 1 1791
" Thursday Variable Ely Breezes Clear
Severn Sloop came up and unloaded as did the factory Shallop. - The former drop't down to Ship and came up in the Evening Tide with the remainder of the Ship's Cargo for this place. - Entered on our Books John Linklater, Magnus Irvin, Thomas Stranger, William Isbester, John Allan, Magnus Spence, Magnus Yourston - Robert Wilson, Thomas Clouston and Robert Randal. - Their terms and Wages will be inserted? in Margin when Capt Hanwell arrives. - All hands engaged unloading Sloop and Shallop & stowing away Cargo."
[In the margin-
"Tho Clouston ? ? pr Annum
Robert Randal ? Do.
Jn Linklater at? 6? do. ? for 3 years.
The rest of Men ? ? this day engaged for four? Years at 6 £ pr Annum."]

Sept. 2
" Friday wind the same - part Clear part Cloudy at times thick fog - with a severe frosty Morning. - The Shallop dropt down to the Ship with Stones and came up with the Tide - Severn Sloop unloaded and Cargo stowed away. The Natives of Wednesday went away."

Sept. 3
"Saturday Wind and Weather as yesterday
Capt Turnor took leave and went on board Ship - Men variously Employed."

Sept. 4
" Sunday Wind and Weather the same"

Sept. 5
" Monday Stiff Breezes ENE and Variable part Clear part Cloudy at times thick fog. Ship remains at Anchor - And it is impofsible for Captain Turnor to remove? his Vefsel while the Wind remains on this quarter - Sent down Severn Sloop with Lantherns? to make Signals in the night in case the wind should chop round - Men variously employed at New York."

Sept. 6
" Tuesday Wind Variable NE Weather as before and Mens Employ the same.
This afternoon the Ship Queen Charlotte got under way - but the Wind changed directly a head - which obliged Capt Turnor to bring to soon after in her old birth."

Sept. 7
" Wednesday AM fresh Breezes N by W Afterwards Wind and Weather as yesterday and Mens Employ the same.
This Morning Early the Queen Charlotte got under way and Sailed for East Main. - pray God send her a safe and speedy pafsage to her desired port Amen."

Sept. 8
" Thursday Clear Weather with Sly Breezes Mens Employ as before."

Sept. 9
" Friday AM Cloudy weather with Light Breezes variable PM Strong Gales N by W with Rain and Sleet very Cold
Mens Employ as before till this afternoon when the Weather obliged them to leave of Work."

Sept. 10
" Saturday AM Stiff Breezes Nly Cloudy with Hail and Snow. sharp freezing Weather - PMmore Clear and moderate very Cold.
Sent Mitchael Oman James Hall and three Men to examine the Banks of Sumattaway and other places - for Timber - Rest as before.
The ship not arriving ? ? as the latenefs of the Season will prevent the necefsary fall duties being executed. we cannot divide our Men at this time to send them any distance to Hunt Geese - which will be a great lofs to your honors. - as here are no Indians kept to hunt for us - and it is impofsible to do any thing towards Inland when the Season is so far advanced."

Sept. 11
" Sunday NNW Breezes - Cloudy at times Sleet and Snow."

Sept. 12
" Monday Wind nearly as yesterday - with Sleet Hail & Snow alternately frosty Cold Weather at times thick fog.
Mens Employ nearly as last Week."

Sept. 13
" Tuesday Wind nearly the same, much Snow and Sleet at times thick fog. Men as before. Two Canoes of Play Green Natives arrived with a few Furrs Dryed Meat Pimicon and fat which they Traded."

Sept. 14
" Wednesday AM Wind and Weather the same PM wind Sly part Clear part Cloudy
This morning the Signal was made from the Sloop of a Vefsel being in the Offing - and about Noon the Sea Horse and Churchill Sloop Anchored in five fathom Hole. - late in the Evening Capt Hanwell landed - Sent the Shallop down to Ship. - The Men I sent up the River for Timber returned having found a tolerable quantity near the Mouth of Hill River about 70 or 80 Miles from the factory. rest as before."

Sept. 15
" Thursday Wind as before with Mizzling Rain and Sleet.
The Severn Sloop came up and unloaded. - The Shallop and long boat came up. Entered on your Honours books Robert Spence, Taylor at 8? £ pr Annum, Hugh Hourston, James Hourston, Charles Hay, Rob. Garrock?, James Hutchinson, Adam Linklater?, James Hourie, James Gaddy, Laughton Leigh, George Spence, Robert Tate?, John Simpson, Oman Norquay, Magnus Chambers, George Robinson & George Gun at 6 £ Pr Annum for five years each. also Thomas Smith Cooper from Churchill."

Sept. 16
" Friday Wind and Weather nearly as before more Clear.
The Shallop and Long Boat unloaded and Drop't down to Ship as did the Severn Sloop - Captain Hanwell went on board."

Sept. 17
" Saturday AM Strong Gales Variable PM more moderate at times almost Calm part Clear part Cloudy. Evening much Rain.
The Churchill Sloop came up as did the Shallop and Long Boat the latter with the Sloop unloaded."

Sept. 18
" Sunday Gusts of Wind Variable with showers of Rain Cloudy and Cold towards Evening Strong Gales N by W with heavy Rain Sleet & Snow.
Severn Sloop came up with the Captain. Churchill Sloop and Long Boat drop't down to Ship. the latter came up in the Evening Loaded - Entered on our Books Mr Thomas Thomas Surgeon for Inland - Four Sailors who were Sick on board - landed for the benefit of the Surgeons afsistance."

Sept. 19
" Monday The? Gale Continues with greater violence with Hail Rain Sleet and Snow alternately very Cold towards Evening severe frost.
Nothing done with Craft this day - A Gun fired from the Ship but it is impofsible to send down the Gale is so strong. we cannot? see half distance acrofs the River - Am apprehensive some accident has happened."

Sept. 20
" Tuesday Gale continues with unabated Violence Weather the same till the afternoon when it cleared up - One of the factory boats drove from her Moorings and another Sunk. Towards Evening sent down Shallop and Long Boat to the Ship."

Sept. 21
" Wednesday Moderate Gales N by W Cloudy with Snow Sharp freezing Weather.
This Morning the Long Boat came up with the Melancholly intelligence that the Ship had lost her best bower? Anchor on Monday and the Churchill Sloop hers - and both in? great danger, driving on Shore. also that the Churchill Jolly boat is mifsing. - Mr Ramsey writes word that he has hopes of the Men being safe on the Eastern Shore. - Sent Seven Men in a Boat acrofs the River in search of them. they returned in the Evening having found the Churchill Boat at the Mouth of Crofs Creek - but no Intelligence of the poor Men. Long Boat unloaded and returned to the Ship and came up in the Evening Tide. Shallop came up and unloaded. Severn Sloop unloaded."

Sept. 22
" Thursday Variable Light Airs and Gentle Breezes Sly Clear and fine.
Sent Seven Men and Boat again to the Eastward to examine the Shores for the poor Men - and had the large Guns fired every Quarter during the day in case the poor fellows should have strayed into the Woods and lost themselves. - they returned in the Evening with the Sloops Boat but have no Tidings of the Men, therefore it is feared they are lost on the Eastern Shore. The boat having upset near where she was found and has received much Damage as her Thwart Oars and Mast are lost.
Severn Sloop took on part of the Homeward bound Cargo - The Long boat unloaded - these two with the Shallop dropt down to the Ship. Captain Hanwell went on board."

Sept. 23
" Friday Pleasant Breezes Nly Clear & fine
Sent Seven Men in Boat acrofs Nelson River for the Churchill Packet. Sloop Churchill came up and unloaded. Shallop and Long Boat came up unloaded and drop't down to Ship. The Shallop took in part of Homward bd Cargo."

Sept. 24
" Saturday AMvariable Light Airs Sly with Showers of Rain part Clear part Cloudy PM Breezes Nly Cloudy
Sloop Churchill took in remainder of Homward bound Cargo. - The Shallop and Severn Sloop came up as did the Long boat which was unloaded. The Men I sent yesterday acrofs Nelson River returned with two Indians and Churchill packet."

Sept. 25
" Sunday AM Cloudy weather with Snow PM more Clear.
Sloop Churchill dropt down to Ship. Shallop and Severn Sloop unloaded. the Sloop took in part of the Cargo for Severn Settlement - The Shallop and Long boat came up. - Discharged from your honours Service James Hall Carpenter, Will Folster Steersman & Canoe builder, John Strickler, John Kirknefs, Hugh Folster and James Batt Canoe Men, James Grimbester Cooper, John Vallient Labourer, John Harrison Shipwright and William Cromartie Sailor - and entered on York Books Thomas Hounsome? Shipwright for this place and Charles Kitson Sailor and Carpenter for Severn. - Shallop and Long boat came up."

Sept. 26
" Monday Breezes E by S Cloudy with Sleet and Snow at tines.
Unloaded Shallop and Long Boat and sent them to the Ship with Stones. - Severn Sloop took in the remainder of her Cargo for that Settlement - hopes she will Sail tomorrow. - Discharged from your honours Service Mr Mitchael Oman late? Master and Trader at Cumberland House. - In the Evening closed the packet and delivered it to Captain Hanwell. pray God send the Ship Sea Horse a safe and Speedy pafsage to England. Amen."
"Jos. Colen
Errors excepted"


1M160 B.239/a/91


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