" A Diary of Occurrances at York Factory Hudson Bay North America by Joseph Colen Resident.
Commencing September 11th 1792
Ending September 6 1793"


September 11 1792
" Tuesday PM Variable Breezes from W to N part Clear & part Cloudy
This afternoon closed the Packet and deliverd the same to Capt. Hanwell - Shallop came up, loaded her with Stones"

Sept. 12
" Wednesday part clear, part Cloudy, with flying Showers and Breezes SSW
This morning early Shallop dropt down to Ship loaded with Stones - Mefs Ballanden & James Sutherland took leave and Severn Sloop sailed - About nine AM Capt. Hanwell took leave and went on board Ship in one of the factory Boats accompanied by Mr Philip Turnor - All hands not engaged in Craft afsisting opening and stowing Cargo -
Sent two Indians up the River to examine Shores & Islands for Boat & Cable lost during the Ship's stay at this place -"

Sept. 13
" Thursday AM Variable Winds from W to N - PM strong Gales Nly
Heavy Rain the whole day
Mr Donald & six men went down to Ship with a few fresh provisions &c - Prepared letters for Churchill - Rest employ'd nearly as yesterday
Indians of yesterday returned - No tidings of either Boat or Cables - Laid up Shallop in her Winters Berth near the old Batery House"

Sept. 14
" Friday Breezes Nly Cloudy with Rain Hail & Snow alternately
Had part of old Buildings rafted from Old to New York - Mefs Sutherland and Thomas went to Tent & Hunt in the Marsh during the Geese flying - sent three Englishmen and three Indians to Tent & hunt at the Fourteens
In the Evening three Canoes of Natives arrived with a few Furrs dryed Moose Flesh & Fatt"

Sept. 15
" Saturday Cloudy with a continual fall of Snow & hail - Gusts of Wind Nly & Squally
Traded with Indians of last night. Mens employ as before"

Sept. 16
" Sunday Sharp freezing Weather part clear and part cloudy with Strong Gales of Wind Nly at times Hail & Snow
Engaged in Trading Room nearly the whole day and delivered out things for men going to the Woods
One of the Sloops Cables having given way while riding at Anchor she run up the River - laid her in her Winters Berth below the old Batery Bar"

Sept. 17
" Monday a Continual fall of Snow all last night wind? vered? more Wly Cloudy
The ship Sea Horse got under way this mornings Tide and was soon after out of sight - Pray God send her a safe and speedy pafsage to England. Amen - Sent twenty men in two Boats to the woods. Had Launch at Old factory taken down - afterwards all hands at home afsisting taking to pieces the Old Cook Room & Smiths Shop. Indians went away"

Sept. 18
" Tuesday Light Airs Wly Clear & fine.
This morning sent off the Churchill Packet Men - The detention of my Indians at that Settlement so long will I am affraid be attended with great lofs to this factory as I engaged them purposely to Kill Geese. The Season is already comenced. have very few hunters & many Men to provide for. the great severity of fresh Provisions has occaisioned the Scurvy to make its appearance
Two Natives came from the Eastward to have their Gun locks repaired. they brought a few Geese & Mr Sutherland sent a few from his Tent, in the whole sufficient to serve out one days allowance - Had Buoys taken up & Craft laid in their winters Stations. Rest of the Men employd nearly as before"

Sept. 19
" Wednesday Strong Breezes SSW Cloudy with rain
The Natives of last Night went away. Sent three Men acrofs to the fourteens for Geese - All hands at home engaged taking down Buildings at old York, Bricklayer & Afsistant excepted engaged at their own businefs "

Sept. 20
" Thursday Stiff Breezes variable part clear part Cloudy towards evening Hail & Snow
All hands as before - & engaged taking up old Buildings to New York"

Sept. 21
" Friday Wind Weather and Mens Employ nearly as before the Men returned from the fourteens River with 40 Geese"

Sept. 22
" Saturday Wind Weather and Men's employ as before - towards Evening Snow"

Sept. 23
" Sunday Light Breezes Nly part Clear part Cloudy with frost"

Sept. 24
" Monday Wind & Weather nearly as yesterday
Sent Boat Builder and two Men to the Eastern Shore to break up an old Long Boat which has lain there ever since the fall of 1782. The timbers of which I hope will be converted into smaller Crafts next Spring - Five Men at Hunting Tents - Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Twenty Men came from the Woods with 14 rafts of fire Wood rest of Men variously employ'd - Rec'd 80 Geese -"

Sept. 25
" Tuesday Wind the same ? severe frosty Weather
Tradesmen fixing up old frame Work of Cook Room, Smith and Cooper Shops, Labourers carrying Wood up the Bank, rest as before.
Two Natives arrived with a few Skins and 136 lbs of Green Beaver which they Traded and went away"

Sept. 26
" Wednesday light Breezes WSW clear & fine
All hands nearly as before except one man put acrofs the River to convey Powder to the fourteens River, Hunter returned in the Evening with the Boat Builder &c & 50 Geese"

Sept. 27
" Thursday Wind Weather and Men's Employ nearly as before except three unbending Sails of Craft &c"

Sept. 28
" Friday Stiff Breezes Sly clear & fine, Rain in the Evening
Sent twelve men to raft home fire Wood ? side? the four Mile Gully - Twenty Men preparing to leave the Factory to morrow - Sent one Man down to the Marsh to prepare a spot of Ground for Spring Hunting Tent. rest as before"

Sept. 29
" Saturday Early AM Light Breezes Sly ? afterwards showers of Rain with Gusts of Wind variable from N to W it increased PM to a Huricane so as to endanger our buildings it strip'd the Lead from off Magazine - I hear from the old factory that the few remaining buildings left standing are striped of their covering and a long range of Stockades blown down
Early this morning sent off ten men to fall and Saw Timber near Hill River - they have provisions served them out to the latter end of Febuary. Ten men afsisting the above and to return with the Boats - the Men I sent yesterday return'd with two good rafts - Set the Lime Kiln, rest nearly as before"

Sept. 30
" Sunday part Clear part Cloudy with Nly Breezes - Snow last night. Divine Service - Mr Thomas came from his Tent "

Oct. 1 1792
" Monday Variable Breezes Wly part clear part Cloudy at times Hail & Snow
Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Mr Thomas went to his Tent - 5 Men as Hunters at their respective Tents. Six at the old Factory - Twenty up the River rest carrying Wood up the Bank & otherways variously employ'd "

Oct. 2
" Tuesday Hail Sleet & Snow at times Rain with strong Gales variable - towards Evening very sharp freezing Weather
All hands engaged taking down Launch while Tide served - saw a smoak at French Creek sent four Men in a boat but they were obliged to return as the surge run too High"

Oct. 3
" Wednesday fresh Breezes Nly Clear & Severe. Ice appeared in the River
Finished taking down the Launch at New York - Sent three Men in a Boat with Provisions for the Hunters who are to Tent and hunt at the Fourteens & French Creek during the Winter - they returned in the afternoon with all the Goose Hunters - Mefs Thomas? and Sutherland also returned with Tent & Bedding from the Marsh - Geese Killed this fall only 300. Twelve men preparing to leave the Factory for Winter Hunting Tents and twelve for Woods"

Oct. 4
" Thursday Variable Gusts of Wind and Gales from W to N with Hail Sleet & Snow at times Rain - Towards Evening very Severe & drifting Snow
The men sent off last Saturday to afsist Wooders and Sawyers to Hill River returned with Boats one of which was the new one sent from England this Season - the Pateroon's report is very favourable and says the River is much better so far as he has gone than any down? the Bay but he says the Water had fallen upwards of three foot perpendicular from his going up to the time of his return - had part of the Boats laid up in their Winter stations - Tools &c collected - Rest of men nearly as before
The Packet men I sent to Churchill the 28th August returned. the detention of these Men so long at that Settlement has been attended with a great lofs to this Factory as I engaged them purposely to Kill Geese and these being absent during their flying prevented my procuring those supplys of fresh Provisions I expected"

Oct. 5
" Friday Severe frosty Morning. day Clear with NE Breezes
Sent 18 men to raft home fire Wood - Twelve Men preparing to leave the Factory to morrow. rest variously engaged"

Oct. 6
" Saturday Snow last night fresh Breezes NW part clear part Cloudy sent off Mr Sutherland & three Men to Tent and hunt at French Creek three to Twenty Mile Creek and three to Pennycutway - Four men afsisting with Boats - the Wooders returned with 4 rafts of Fire Wood"

Oct.7
" Sunday light Breezes SSW Clear & fine
Saw a smoke at French Creek sent a Boat with four men on their return brought over the Men who afsisted Mr Sutherland and party yesterday - the Boat being froze in at French Creek "

Oct. 8
" Monday Light Airs SSW part clear part Cloudy Mild and thawing - towards evening Wind vered Nly Cloudy and cold
Sent three Men to Tent and hunt at Ten Shilling Creek five men afsisting them with a Boat. Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Six officers at old Factory - Willm Sinclair afsisting me at this place - Labourers carrying Wood up the Bank and otherways variously engaged - Hunters & Wooders as last Week"

Oct. 9
" Tuesday Light Breezes Cloudy with Sleet and Snow
Sent seventeen men acrofs the River to collect drift Wood into Piles to Haul home in Winter. Brought home one large Raft - four carrying Wood up the Bank at old York. rest as before "

Oct. 10
" Wednesday Stiff Breezes Sly with Showers of Rain & thawing
Early part of the day employed carrying Wood up the Bank - sent four Men and two Natives acrofs the River for the Boat left at the Fourteens last Saturday - Also five men to the Marsh with a Raft of Fire Wood for Spring Game tent - Ten men preparing to leave the Factory to morrow rest as before"

Oct. 11
" Thursday Heavy Rain last night Light Breezes W & part clear part Cloudy
Sent ten men and two Indians for the produce? of the Hunters up the river - Sent ten men to Tent and cut down Wood at Ten Shilling Creek - Six afsisting them acrofs with Boats - the latter returned with 51 lbs of Trout from the Hunters there Rest as before"

Oct. 12
" Friday Wind as yesterday Cloudy and frosty
Labourers at home collecting Stones for the Banks at New York and for Lime? against Spring - Rest as before
Information acquaints me there is not a Settlement in this Country so bare of Stones as this place - when the Soil produces stone the few collected are brought down by the Ice in the Breaking up of the River in the Spring of the year - It is with difficulty and attended with much time to collect sufficient for the Ballast of the Ship and for which the Shores are cleared for Miles up and down from the Factory - Since the perquisites of the Stones being taken from the Captains I find a very material difference required for Ballast as their chief commodity now called for is Wood - an article almost as scarce as Stones -" [10 lines scribbled out]

Oct. 13
" Saturday Breezes NW Sharp freezing Cloudy Weather
The men I sent up the River Thursday returned with a few fish. Rest as before"

Oct. 14
" Sunday Wind and Weather as before
Sent four men in a Canoe to Ten Shilling Creek with fish for the Wooders, Divine Service"

Oct. 15
" Monday part clear part cloudy variable Breezes moderate weather towards Evening light Snow
Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Wooders and Hunters as before. two men collecting lime Stones for Spring - Six at old factory rest variously employed leveling new plantation &c "

Oct. 16
" Tuesday Early this morning moderate breezes Wly Cloudy afterwards strong Gales NW with thick drifting Snow Severe cold
Sent two Men & two Indians in a Canoe to Hunters Tents up the River early all hands as Yesterday till the Weather obliged them to be employ'd within doors -"

Oct. 17
" Wednesday stiff Breezes NW Clear and Severe - River filled with heavy Ice -
Men's employ as on monday except two at old York afsisting taking down the Building - The men I sent yesterday up the River returned late this Evening - Having left their Canoe at Pennycutway from which place they walked they say the River is almost closed with Heavy Ice"

Oct. 18
" Thursday Wind Weather & Men's Employ as yesterday"

Oct. 19
" Friday Gusts of Wind NW with drifting snow & Cloudy
All hands variously employed in House"

Oct. 20
" Saturday part clear part Cloudy with frost? breezes NNW Severe cold and the River full of heavy ice
Men's employ nearly as the former part of last Week "

Oct. 21
" Sunday Clear fine Weather Wind as before, from the appearance of the River & no heavy Ice coming down I judge its set fast upwards"

Oct. 22
" Monday AM Wind SE clear and fine PM Light Breezes Ely moderately mild
Sent two men up this Island to examine the state of the River on their return report the River is froze over so low as the seven Mile Island Rest as last week"

Oct. 23
" Tuesday Light Airs variable from E to SSE Cloudy & Mild PM Hail
Men's Employ as before "

Oct. 24
" Wednesday Light Airs Ely very Mild Cloudy and thawing - River Ice upwards gavwway and came down in large fields which is piled, on the Shoal parts of this River, very lofty
Men nearly as before began fixing up King Posts of Stockades"

Oct. 25
" Thursday Light Airs SE Cloudy mild and thawing. Men's Employ as before"

Oct. 26
" Friday Wind Weather and Men's Employ as before"

Oct. 27
" Saturday Wind variable Nly Severe
Menm's Employ as before finished fixing up King Posts of Stockades arround Enclosing about 2 1/2? Acres"

Oct. 28
" Sunday Wly Breezes Clear & severe
Divine Service"

Oct. 29
" Monday SSW Breezes Clear & moderate
Sent three men up this Island along the shore of Nelson River where they found the small Jolly Boat lost from the Ship. Rest nearly as the former part of last Week "

Oct. 30
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as before - much Rain during last night
Sent six men to clean the Boat found yesterday up Nelson River which they fixed on logs ready to haul home in Winter - One man came from Ten Shilling Creek in a small Canoe with a few fish. Rest as before"

Oct. 31
" Wednesday Variable Light Airs from W to ENE Cloudy
Launched a Boat and sent four men (the Hunters of yesterday accompanied them) with Provisions to the Wooders at Ten Shilling Creek. Rest as before"

Nov. 1 1792
" Thursday Wind Weather and Men's Employ nearly as before. Latter part of the day light snow and Mizzeling rain"

Nov. 2
" Friday Variable light Airs Cloudy
Two men came from the Hunters Tents up the River with a few fish &c Rest as before - The Hunters who came here to day says the River Ice upwards set fast and continued firm for some days - when the mild weather came on, it again broke up and occaisioned a heavy deluge that rose the water nearly twenty feet perpendicular, & that the Ice is piled very lofty along Shore"

Nov. 3
" Saturday Wind Weather and mens employ at home nearly as before
The Hunters of yesterday went to their tents having left their Canoe at the factory"

Nov. 4
" Sunday fresh Breezes variable Wly part Clear part Cloudy & Mild towards Evening Mizzeling Rain. Divine Service"

Nov. 5
" Monday Variable Light Airs all round the Compafs part Clear part Cloudy
Mens Employ at home nearly as last week - Saw a smoke acrofs the River - sent three Indians in a Canoe on their return brought over Wm Manson Pateroon & one man who received an injury by the falling of a Tree - the Pateroon returned in the afternoon by the same conveyance and two men were sent with him in room of the one left under the Surgeons care "

Nov. 6
" Tuesday Light airs variable from E to N Cloudy
Men as before. An Indian Child died on the plantation this Evening"

Nov.7
" Wednesday Light Breezes Nly Cloudy and freezing
Sent two Natives acrofs to French Creek hunting Tent returned with a few fish - Men's Employ nearly as before"

Nov. 8
' Thursday Calm and Cloudy with Light Snow - Mem's Employ nearly as before"

Nov. 9
" Friday Light Breezes SSW Cloudy
Mens Employ nearly as before
Engaged the Ivalid Indians &c to cut a Path from New York acrofs the Island to Nelson River"

Nov. 10
" Saturday Wind Weather & Mens Employ as before"

Nov. 11
" Sunday Wind & Weather as before
One Indian and family came in with a few furrs. what is extraordinary he came down in his Canoe. a very singular circumstance at this Season of the year - more particularly so as he told me he saw many Geese and ducks and other water fowl this day - Paid Debt and Traded three Porcupines "

Nov. 12
" Monday AM fresh Breezes SE Cloudy PM Calm and light Snow
Tradesmen at their respective occupations Ten men at or near Hill River cutting down Timber, Eleven cutting down fire wood Thirteen at different Hunting Tents - Six at the old Factory rest variously engaged "

Nov. 13
" Tuesday Light Breezes SSW Cloudy
Men and all the Natives as before Indian Women drefsing Parchment Moose and Deer Skins for Shoes"

Nov. 14
" Wednesday AM Light Breezes Sly part Clear part Cloudy PM Stiff Breezes
Men and Natives as before"

Nov. 15
" Thursday Wind & Weather as yesterday till the afternoon when Mizzeling Rain - No Rain has fallen so late in the Season for seven years past. Men and Natives as before"

Nov. 16
" Friday Breezes variable from NW to N by S Clear
Men &c as before "

Nov. 17
" Saturday Light Breezes NW Clear and cold
Employment as before"

Nov. 18
" Sunday Wind as before Severe cold River full of heavy Ice"

Nov. 19
" Monday AM wind as before Cloudy PM variable NNW very severe
Tradesmen at their respective occupations except Bricklayer who is engaged planing Boards - Wooders and Hunters as last Week Six at old factory. Rest variously engaged except one man in sick list - Natives cutting Path acrofs the Island "

Nov. 20
" Tuesday SSW Breezes Cloudy Men and Natives as before "

Nov. 21
" Wednesday fresh Breezes Sly part Clear part Cloudy - Employment as before "

Nov. 22
" Thursday Light Airs Sly Cloudy & Mild Mens Employ as before
Indians finished the Path from this factory to Nelson River it being cut thro Woods nearly thirty yards wide makes an agreable View as the Nelson River is to be seen from the Tops of these Buildings at the distance of nearly five Miles - And the factory can also be seen from that River which will be a great afsistance to strangers in finding their way to the factory
Two men came from the Woods for provisions - Crofsed the River near the Seven Mile Island which is there froze - All below is quite clear "

Nov. 23
" Friday Wind and Weather as before
Sent three men with those of yesterday to the Woods - Three afsisting them with the Boat acrofs the River with provisions &c on their return they brought James Thompson home for the Surgeons afsistance. this poor man has not been able to do much duty since he landed being afflicted with a dropsical complaint. Men's Employ nearly as before"

Nov. 24
" Saturday fresh Breezes W by N Clear and Sharp
Four in Sick List rest as before "

Nov. 25
" Sunday Variable Breezes from W to N Severe - towards Evening more moderate with light Snow - Divine Service"

Nov. 26
" Monday WNW Breezes Cloudy
Sent three Men to clear the Cables of the Craft laying near the old Battery House from Ice - Wooders and Hunters as before two in sick list - Rest as before except the Bricklayer who is afsisting at the Pit Saw - Sent two Natives to take a Beaver house near flambro"

Nov. 27
" Tueday fresh Breezes WSW Clear
Men's Employment as before - Two Men came from the upper Hunting Tent with fish "

Nov. 28
" Wednesday Variable Breezes from SSE to SW part Clear part Cloudy
Mr Sutherland came from his Tent with 60 lbs of fish. Sent one man for a Sled left up the River yesterday - Removed several Bales of Cloth Blankets & Chests? of Guns into the Magazine as a place of Security in case of Accident from fire which God prevent Rest of Men nearly as before - Indians returned with one Beaver "

Nov. 29
" Thursday Strong Gale NW with drifting Snow
Mr Sutherland went to his Tent. Rest nearly as before "

Nov. 30
" Friday Breezes NW Clear & Sharp
Sent off Pennycutway hunters to their Tent. rest nearly as before. as nothing is to be procured at Ten Shilling Creek Hunting tent two of the men there removed to the Wooders and one man came Home having left 130 lbs of Fish with the Pateroon for the supply of his men besides? serving them out to? days? per? Week since their absence from the factory - River Ice set fast abreast this Plantation but open below "

Dec. 1 1792
" Saturday Breezes SW thick Rime this morning afterwards Clear
Two Men came from French Creek with a few fish & 20 Partridges. Two Men came from the Woods to bake Bread - Rest nearly as before"

Dec. 2
" Sunday Light Breezes Ely Cloudy & Mild with light Snow - Hunters and Wooders of yesterday went away to their respective Tents - Sent two Indians acrofs the River to take a Beaver House - Sent two of the Invalid Men to the Woods to Bark Stockades "

Dec. 3
" Monday Strong Gales NW with drifting Snow
All hands at home variously Employed in House - Wooders & Hunters as last Week - Natives of yesterday returned with three Beaver "

Dec. 4
" Tuesday Gale continued with unabated violence till noon when it became more moderate & Clear Severe cold Mens Employ nearly the same. River Ice set fast abreast the old Factory - Open below "

Dec. 5
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as yesterday afterwards & Mens Employ nearly the same "

Dec. 6
" Thursday fresh Breezes SSW Severe -
Two Men came from the Hunting Tent up the River with 130 lbs of Methy fish. Had Victualing Hole cut on the River Ice rest as before "

Dec. 7
" Friday NW Breezes Cloudy
Hunters of yesterday went to their Tents. One Man and an Indian accompanied them with Dogs and Sleds to afsist home with Methy fish caught up the River - Had Beacons set acrofs the River - Rest as before "

Dec. 8
" Saturday Light Airs variable ESE & Sly Cloudy & Mild - towards Evening cold with Breezes NW
Mens Employ nearly as before
Two Men came from French Creek with a few fish as did the Men I sent up the River yesterday with five Sleds - Notwithstanding thirteen Men have been out at four different Hunting Tents - Besides Officers from the House Indians & all their Exertions has not procured above 70 Partridges & 16 Rabbits this circumstance alone is sufficiently concerning of their scarcity in this quarter - Four Men came from the Woods for Provisions & bake Bread"

Dec. 9
" Sunday Breezes SSE Cloudy & Mild
The Wooders went to their Tents. Two Natives arrived with a few Skins & beg provisions for their families""

Dec. 10
" Monday Breezes N & W? Clear. Wm Sinclair accompanied by one Indian set off to examine the work done by Sawyers &c Hill River - Sent one Man & an Indian with four Dogs & Sleds to Hunters Tent up the River for fish - One of the Men who usually accompanied them having refused his share of duty sent him to the Woods - Rest nearly as last Week
Traded with Indians of yesterday when the amount of the whole only produced 14 MB - Mr Thomas Surgeon set off to Pennycutway to see James Banks who is Ill"

Dec. 11
" Tuesday Light Airs variable Cloudy
Indians of Sunday went away - Men's Employ as before. Those sent to the Hunting Tents up the River returned with four Sled loads of Fish"

Dec. 12
' Wednesday Variable Light Airs part Clear part Cloudy
Mens Employ nearly as yesterday - Mr Thomas returned from Pennycutway mixed up Medicines to serve the? Man to morrow "

Dec. 13
' Thursday Breezes NW Cloudy Men's Employ nearly as before. Sent one Man with Dogs and Sleds to the Hunting Tents up the River "

Dec. 14
" Friday Wind Weather & Mens Employ nearly the same"

Dec. 15
" Saturday Light Breezes Variable Sly Cloudy
One Man came from French Creek Hunting Tent with a few fish &c & returned Two came from the Woods for provisions - Rest nearly as before"

Dec. 16
" Sunday Light Airs Variable from S by W to ESE Clear and Mild
Divine Service. Wooders of yesterday went to their Tent"

Dec. 17
" Monday Wind as yesterday Cloudy and Mild at times light Snow
Tradesmen at their respective occupations Labourers at home grinding Oatmeal & otherwise variously engaged - Hunters and Wooders as before - In the Evening William Sinclair and Native returned from the upper Woods - his report of Work done is not very favourable considering the length of time they have been absent from the factory - One Man & Dogs returned from the Hunting Tents up the River, the overflowings on the Ice prevented hauling their Sleds to the factory"

Dec. 18
" Tuesday Light Breezes Nly Cloudy
Sent five Men with an Indian up the River for Sleds left yesterday - Rest nearly as before "

Dec. 19
" Wednesday Light Breezes variable from NW to W by S early part of the day thick Rime and Cloudy afterwards Clear
Sixteen Men returned from the Woods for the Xmas hollidays Rest nearly as before "

Dec. 20
" Thursday strong Gales Nly with thick drift
Fourteen Men cutting fire wood - rest variously employ'd in House"

Dec. 21
" Friday AM fresh Breezes NW Clear PM Breezes Wly Cloudy and Severe - Men's Employ nearly as before"

Dec. 22
" Saturday fresh Breezes NW clear sharp Weather
Men's Employ nearly as before - All the Hunters came home for the Xmas Hollidays "

Dec. 23
" Sunday NW Breezes part clear part Cloudy very sharp PM Variable SW"

Dec. 24
" Monday Wind as before Cloudy & Severe
Men Employed cleaning out cabbins collecting Tools &c"

Dec. 25
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as before"

Dec. 26
" Wednesday Breezes SW by W part Clear part Cloudy
Part of the Men at their holliday diversions part disorderly?"

Dec. 27
" Thursday fresh Gales NW by W with Cloudy thick drift "

Dec. 28
" Friday Wind and Weather as before"

Dec. 29
" Saturday AM Mild and Calm
PM Cloudy drifting Snow with fresh Breezes NW
Sent all hands a few Invalids excepted with a large Sled to haul home the Boat drifted on shore on the Back of this Island
One Indian and family set off to hunt small furrs"

Dec. 30
" Sunday Wind & Weather as before "

Dec. 31
" Monday fresh Breezes NW Clear and Severe"

Jan. 1 1793
" Tuesday AM Clear Weather with Sly Breezes - PM strong Gales NW Cloudy and drifting Snow
Men preparing their things in readinefs to leave the factory to morrow "

Jan. 2
" Wednesday Variable Breezes from SSW to S Cloudy
Sent twenty Men to the Woods. three preparing their Saws to set off to morrow as are seven others getting their things in readinefs for Hunting Tent - Ten cutting down wood near hill River. Two opening the Victualling Hole - two in sick list Rest variously engaged - The Native and family who set off the 29th Ult. returned this day very ill"

Jan. 3
" Thursday Wind as yesterday Clear and fine
Sent seven Englishmen and two Indian youth to tent and hunt to the Eastward. Sawyers went to the woods. Taylors working for Trade (as are Six Natives making Caps and sleeves) Cooper, Smith & three Men employed for Inland - Four Grinding Oatmeal - Eight at the old factory, rest as before"

Jan. 4
" Friday Variable breezes alround the Compafs with drifting Snow "

Jan. 5
" Saturday Variable Winds from SE to NE Snow Cloudy & Mild
Men as before Prepared Letters for Churchill Severn and Bay Settlements"

Jan. 6
" Sunday Variable Wind from NE to SE Clear & pleasant "

Jan. 7
" Monday Light Breezes Variable SE Cloudy & Mild
All hands Employed nearly as last Week Closed the Packet for Severn Churchill and Bay Settlement"

Jan. 8
" Tuesday AM Light Airs Sly Clear and fine PM Cloudy
Sent off two Natives with a Packet to Churchill and two to Severn in which is enclosed Letters for the Bay Settlements
Mens Employment nearly as before"

Jan. 9
' Wednesday AM Light Breezes Sly & Mild PM fresh Breezes Nly & Cold - Men as before "

Jan. 10
" Thursday Breezes Variable? NW Cloudy
Men's Employment nearly the same "

Jan. 11
" Friday fresh Breezes SW Clear last night Severe
Three Men came from the Eastward Hunting Tents with only 50 Partridges - Two Officers went to the Woods to examine work done - Rest as before"

Jan. 12
" Saturday Wind & Weather as before and Men at home the Same
Two of the Hunters went to their Tents. Six Men came from the woods for Provisions & to bake bread "

Jan. 13
" Sunday Strong Gales variable from WNW and Nly with thick drift and Cloudy
Wooders went to their Tents and two brought home their Bedding from thence to go to a Hunting Tent "

Jan. 14
" Monday Breezes NW Clear and Severe
Sent three Men to Tent & Hunt acrofs Nelson River - Three bad with the Scurvy rest as last Week "

Jan. 15
" Tuesday Wind Weather & Mens Employ the same "

Jan. 16
" Wednesday the same"

Jan. 17
" Thursday the same"

Jan. 18
" Friday fresh Gales NW Cloudy with drifting Snow
Employment of Men and sick as before "

Jan. 19
" Saturday fresh Breezes Wly very Severe AM thick Rime PM Clear
Men nearly as before. two men came from the Eastward Hunting Tents, and one from the Back of this Island only 95 Partridges from three Hunting Tents. Nelson River is not yet set in below Seal Island which obliged the Men I sent off on Monday to errect? their Tent on the back of this Island
Eight Men came from the Woods to Bake Bread & for Provisions"

Jan. 20
" Sunday Breezes Sly Clear
The Hunters and Wooders went to their respective Tents "

Jan. 21
" Monday Wind & Weather the same till toward Evening when Ely Breezes
Men's Employ nearly as last Week - One Man came from the Northward Hunting Tent very Ill. Three Natives arrived with three Sleds of Furrss they say Partridges are very numerous about four days Journey distance Inland so that I am in hopes they will yet visit the Coast"

Jan. 22
" Tuesday fresh Breezes SE Cloudy with Light Snow
Men and Sick as before - Natives of yesterday paid part of their debt & Traded"

Jan. 23
" Wednesday Light Airs Ely Cloudy
Natives of yesterday went away engaged them to come in to Kill Geese in the Spring. Men as before "

Jan. 24
" Thursday Light Airs Clear fine & Mild
Men as before "

Jan. 25
" Friday Wind as before Cloudy towards Evening Light Snow
Mens Employ & Sick nearly as before. Two men came from the Eastward Tents with 95 Partridges"

Jan. 26
" Saturday Wind and Weather nearly as before and Mens Employ the same
The Hunters of yesterday went to their Tents and one came from the Northward with only 20 Partridges. Six Men came from the Woods for Provisions & to Bake Bread"

Jan. 27
" Sunday Clear & fine Weather with NW Breezes
The Hunters & Wooders of yesterday went to their respective Tents "

Jan. 28
" Monday Breezes NW Cloudy & Cold
Taylor at Work for Trade. Cooper, Smith and three Men for Inland - thirty Men at the Woods. Eleven at Hunting Tents. Seven at the old Factory - Four in Sick List one of whom J? Robinson Shipwright very bad with the Scurvy - Rest variously Employed"

Jan. 29
" Tuesday Wind weather and Mens Employ the same "

Jan. 30
" Wednesday Wind as before Clear and severe
Mens Employ & Sick the same "

Jan. 31
" Thursday Wly Breezes Cloudy - Men's Employ at home nearly the same
The Men I sent to cut down Timber &c the 29th of Sept. last returned this day, acquainted me they have eaten only two days fresh Provisions since their absence "

Feb. 1 1793
" Friday Fresh Breezes SW very severe & Cloudy
Men and Sick nearly as before "

Feb. 2
" Saturday more clear with Gales SW
The Weather has been severe within these few days past as to freeze our English Brandy so solid as it could not be drawn off thro a large Brafs Cock. - In one of my Thermometers the Spirit is sunk into the bulb and that of the Quicksilver being a patent one with Index's is become uselefs the Metal I judge being froze solid in the tube
The Joiner and afsistant came from the woods with their Bedding - as did five Men for Provisions - Two of the Eastward hunters came home with only 95 Partridges. Rest of men nearly as before"

Feb. 3
" Sunday stiff Breezes SW Cloudy
The Hunters of yesterday went to their Tent - as did the Wooders with whom I sent five men and large sled to afsist hauling home Stockades. Sent the Bricklayer to the Woods for his bedding"

Feb. 4
" Monday Light Breezes Sly Mild and Clear
Sent one Man to the Woods to saw Boards &c also one Man to join the Eastward Hunters. Joiner making ? his afsistant planing boards - Smith making Spike nails, Cooper and two Men at Work for Inland. Taylor two Men and four Indian Women making Cloaths for Trade. Ten at Hunting Tents twenty one at the woods eight at the old Factory - Three in Sick list, rest variously Employed
One Man came from the Northward Hunting Tent - says they crofsed Nelson River where Partridges are very scarse having killed only thirteen Birds in 9 Days"

Feb. 5
" Tuesday Stiff Breezes NW Cloudy & Severe
The Hunter of yesterday went to his Tent with whom I sent the Bricklayer & one Man - Rest as before "

Feb. 6
" Wednesday Wind as before Clear and Severe
Mens Employ the same"

Feb. 7
" Thursday the same"

Feb. 8
" Friday the same"

Feb. 9
" Saturday nearly the same
Two Men came from the Eastward hunting Tents with 45? Partridges. Six Men came from the Woods for Provisions brought home Thomas Sinclair who is bad with the Scurvy"

Feb. 10
" Sunday Breezes SW Clear & Mild
The Natives I sent to Severn the 8th Ult. returned with a Packet. The Hunters & Wooders of yesterday went to their respective Tents"

Feb. 11
" Monday Strong Gales of wind all last night
Mens Employ & Sick as last week. Two Men came from the Northward Hunting Tents with only forty Partridges - The Pateroon came to the factory with the Melancholly intelligence that many of the Men at the Woods are disabled by the Scurvy and that he has not sufficient hands to man the large Sled without taking Men from other work"

Feb. 12
" Tuesday Fresh Breezes WSW and variable Sly Clear
The Hunters of yesterday went to their Tent. sent one man with his Bedding to the Woods and two to haul on sleds Sour Krout, Efsence of Malt & Vinegar which the steward omitted to serve out to the Wooders on Saturday
[3 lines crossed out]
Mefs Thomas & Sutherland went to the Woods to examine the work done & see Sick, report favorable of the former but the latter they tell me are in a miserable condition - rest nearly as before"

Feb. 13
" Wednesday Breezes NW Clear. Mens employ and sick as before. James Ballanden and Robert Wilson brought from the woods bad with the Scurvy neither of them when in the best health have been of any Service to this Factory, but rather a burden to it and their fellow servants. the latter appears to rejoice at his affliction as it exempts him from any work"

Feb. 14
" Thursday AM Calm part Clear, part Cloudy PM variable Breeze with light Snow and Cloudy. Men and Sick as before"

Feb. 15
" Friday Fresh gales NW Cloudy and thick drift
Men nearly as before
About noon Robert Tennant Sailor departed this Life. his health for some time past had been on the decline. he expected his difsolution was not far distant and the nearer his end approached, the ? of death did not dismay him. he met it with manly fortitude, and retained his faculties to the latest moment"

Feb. 16
" Saturday Westerly breezes Clear
Two men digging a Grave. two making a Coffin. rest nearly as before. Two Hunters came from the Eastward Tents with 90 Partridges as did two from the Northward with only 50 - Six men came from the Woods for provisions "

Feb. 17
" Sunday Fresh breezes Southerly Clear - The Hunters and Wooders went to their respective Tents. Buried the remains of Robert Tennant"

Feb. 18
" Monday Light breezes Southerly Clear, fine and mild - Smith making Spike Nails - Taylor and two men at work for Trade, Cooper and two men at work for inland. Carpenter making Sashes, one preparing frame work for the Distil? House. Twenty at the woods. Eleven at Hunting Tents. Eight at Old York. Six in the Sick List part of whom very bad with Scurvy but so indolent that notwithstanding their health in a great measure depends on keeping themselves clean. they cannot be prevailed upon even to wash their hands and face oftener than once a week and some of them not so frequent and I am credibly informed here are many men at this place that has not done this office unlefs compelled to it for many Months together. and that is as often as they wash their Linen but to prevent this trouble they have got into the Habit of wearing flannel shirts which they wear from the beginning of October till the warmth of the Sun the May following obliged them to lay such filthy apparel aside - I have used every persuasive argument to convince them that such uncleanlinefs is destructive to their health to no purpose. they think me harsh and cruel when I force them to clean themselves. yet they are determined not to do it unlefs it is done during their working hours and to shew the perversnefs and obstinancy of 4 of the men this day they took from early morning till dinner time to perform it, during which, myself and Mr Sutherland went to the woods to examine work done &c"

Feb. 19
" Tuesday Gusts of wind and strong Gales NW with drifting Snow
Men nearly as yesterday. Two men brought home from the woods bad with with the Scurvy. Having so many men in the Sick List so early in the Season alarms me, and I am apprehensive all businefs will be at a stand. - It is rather surprising that this disorder should happen this season when every precaution was taken early to prevent it. We have had good small Beer throughout the winter hitherto, those absent from the House has had Efsence of Malt served them out to make Wort, they have one and all been plentifully supplied with Sour Krout, with the best Antiscorbutics in our pofsefsion and the Beef and Pork were well freshened before it was served out to them. And all those men now afflicted with that dreadful disorder wear flannel Shirts which they have not changed since the fall. it is evident this must be prejudicial to their healths and the scurvy might be attributed more to uncleanlinefs than to any other cause. the Surgeon is of the same opinion. And to put a stop to the perversnefs of a few and make others more attentive to cleanlinefs fixed up an Order in the Guard Room, desired the Watch to call up a few (who have rendered themselves conspicuous) at five O'Clock in the morning in order that they may clean themselves by the time the rest of the men go to their work, if they neglect after this notice to punish them by Stopping their Saturday's allowance of Brandy"

Feb. 20
' Wednesday Wind Weather and Mens employ nearly as yesterday "

Feb. 21
" Thursday Westerly Breezes Clear and very severe -
Men and sick nearly the same. Two men came from acrofs Nelson River with only 35 Partridges, acquaint me that those who left this place on Sunday were so indiscreet as to attempt to crofs that River below where it is froze over, by doing which they lost one of their dogs with sled and all their provisions being drifted out to sea on a piece of ice, that the men lost themselves for two days when they providentially found the way to their tent"

Feb. 22
" Friday AM Wind and Weather as yesterday - PM strong Gale NW with thick drift and severe cold
Men nearly as before. The Hunters of yesterday went to their Tent and two came from the Eastward Tents with only 90 Partridges
I begin to be alarmed at the non arrival of my Packet Indians, who set off for Churchill the 8th Ult. The Hunters say they crofsed Nelson River safe as they saw their Tents and Hut? where they slept on the North shore. God prevent any accident happening to them tho' I much fear it. I have only one Indian man on the Plantation able to walk - Otherwise I should send in search of the Packet men. One of those who went to Severn has been very ill ever since his return & now lies in the Tent past all hope of recovery"

Feb. 23
" Saturday Winds as before. Clear and severe
The Eastward Hunters went to their Tent. Factory Men and Sick nearly as before . Six men came from the Woods for provisions. hauled home James Folster on a Sled bad with the Scurvy"

Feb. 24
" Sunday Wind and Weather as yesterday
Wooders went to their Tent "

Feb. 25
" Monday AM very severe and Cloudy with variable Breezes Wly PM more moderate with light snow - Mens employ nearly as last week. Many of the Sick in a wretched condition"

Feb. 26
" Tuesday Strong Gales NW severe and thick drift
Men variously employed in House. Sick as before. had the Mens Cabbins cleaned and fumigated"

Feb. 27
" Wednesday Fresh Breezes SW Clear & severe
Men and Sick as on Monday"

Feb. 28
" Thursday Fresh Breezes Cloudy and thick drift
Men and Sick nearly as before"

March 1 1793
" Friday Light Airs NW Clear and mild
Two men came from each of the Hunting Tents only 120 Partridges from the whole. Had Mens house thoroughly cleaned and fumigated and all their bedding and Cloaths aired. Tradesmen &c as before"

Mar. 2
" Saturday Fresh Breezes NW part clear part cloudy and severe. Hunters of yesterday went to their respective Tents - Four men came from the Woods for Provisions - Rest and Sick nearly as before"

Mar. 3
" Sunday AM wind and weather as before - PM variable light airs more moderate - The Wooders went to their Tent - The Sick are become so numerous and [blank] by the Scurvy, the Surgeons time is wholly taken up preparing Medicines and as others are obliged to attend them during his absence - Mr Thomas recommended that a Tent be erected for them at old York, that he might have the Sick more immediately under his own Eye. and where they would enjoy a more pure air than that of the dwelling house. I more readily agreed to his proposal, as while they remain here, they greatly impede businefs, and prevent their fellow servants from enjoying the few comforts found in this cold climate - To morrow I intend to get proper accomodations made for them at the Old Factory"

Mar. 4
" Monday Light breezes Southerly first part of the day Clear latter Cloudy with light snow -
Carpenter, Cooper, Smith, Taylors and Hunters as last week - six men sawing timber &c at the woods fourteen hauling Stockades acrofs the River - eight residing at the old Factory eight in Sick List four preparing accomodations at old York for them rest variously employed packing small articles for inland &c"

Mar. 5
" Tuesday Breezes NW Clear and Severe
Sent down Robert Meal, William Leigh, James Folster, Thomas Sinclair, James Thompson & James Ballanden Labourers and John Robinson Boat Builder to reside? at old York, to be under the immediate eye of the Surgeon, part of the above poor men are very bad with the Scurvy. indeed here are very few at the Factory but are tainted with that dreadful disorder. 'Tis out of my power to account for the malady's being so prevalent at this Factory as every step was taken early that could be devised to prevent it? making any progrefs among the men this season - When the Boat Builder landed he was much afflicted with the Scurvy and has not been able to do the most trivial Job in his own businefs since the Ships departure. Indeed from his appearance and inactivity much could never be expected from him while in the enjoyment of health, and as this information comes from those who have known him for many years, it is evident the Hon'ble Company's interest was not considered by the person who engaged him of all others. Rest of men nearly as before. In the Evening one of the Packet men arrived I sent to Churchill the 8th January returned accompanied by an Indian sent by Mr Stayner, they bring the melancholy intelligence that the other of my Natives was lost in his Journey thither? after being absent from this place for thirty days He fell victim to the inclemency of the weather. The miserable end of this poor Indian affects me much as he was my Companion in my hunting excursions the first year of my being in this country. the kindnefs with which he treated me & his particular attention to my safety I cannnot forget, though the man is no more - Mr Longmoor's family accompanied them in order to go inland next season"

Mar. 6
" Wednesday NW breeze Clear & Cloudy -
Mens employ and Sick nearly as before"

Mar. 7
" Thursday the same"

Mar. 8
" Friday Variable Breezes all round the Compafs more moderate - Two men came from the Eastward Tents with only 85 Partridges, rest nearly as before"

Mar. 9
" Saturday Wind, weather and mens employ nearly the same. Hunters of yesterday went to their Tents. Sent one Man to the Northward Tent. Six came from the Woods for Provisions and to bake Bread "

Mar. 10
" Sunday Part Clear part Cloudy with variable Breezes. Wooders went to their Tent "

Mar. 11
" Monday Cloudy with variable winds moderate. PM Breezes SSW
One man brought home his bedding from the Northward Tent to afsist on large Sled, one accompanied him from thence with 100 Partridges. One man added to the sick List and the man appointed to attend the Sick at Old York is disabled by the Scurvy - Rest nearly as before"

Mar. 12
" Tuesday Southerly Breezes clear fine & mild
One man came from the Woods with his Bedding to attend the Sick - I am sorry to remark the Steward James Smith, cannot be prevailed on to do any the most trivial office for the sick, or any other duty whatever except serving out provisions which employment would not take up three hours in a week to an active man. Men and Sick nearly the same. Hunter of yesterday went to his Tent."

Mar. 13
" Wednesday Wind Weather Mens employ and Sick nearly the same"

Mar. 14
" Thursday Northerly Breezes Cloudy and Cold
Had Warehouses cleaned out - men not employed on this duty as before"

Mar. 15
" Friday Wind weather and mens employ nearly as before - Prepared Letters and closed the packet at Churchill. Two men came from the Eastward Hunting Tent with 95 Partridges"

Mar. 16
" Saturday NW Breezes Clear and Severe. the Hunters of Yesterday went to their respective Tents - Two came from the Woods for Provisions and three? were hauled home from thence bad with the scurvy. This morning sent off the Churchill Packet Indians with whom I sent an Indian Lad."

Mar. 17
" Sunday Fresh Breezes SW Clear - Wooders went to their Tent. In the Evening Two Native Home Guards from Pathe pow neepee with a few Furrs acquaint me that two Canadian Houses are? erected in the Centre of the wintering Ground of my home Guards up this River and are fearful very few furrs will be brought down this ensuing summer. They tell me Beaver has been very scarce this Winter owing to the great swell inland during their time of Breeding which destroyed numbers of these Animals in their vaults - That these Canadian Traders are so artful it is impofsible to keep the few skins the Indians procure from them, as they attend their Tents with Liquor and collect the produce of their Hunt almost immediately on Animals being killed. This induced the Indians to remove their Tents to a greater distance from these enterprizing Traders and nearer to the Factory - while others who cannot refrain from Liquor employ their young men hunting to purchase a supply by which many are kept almost in a state of continual intoxication, and this they do to drown sorrow as my informants tell me Death has made great havock among the Natives this Winter and the Survivors? attempt to forget their lofses by drinking"

Mar. 18
" Monday Early AM breezes Southerly afterwards drifting Snow with variable gusts of wind Northerly. Twelve men at three different Hunting Tents. Cooper and Smith at work for Inland. Taylors for Trade. Carpenter making Sashes. One preparing frame work for Distil House. Sixteen hauling Stockades from acrofs the River on large Sled - Eight at the old Factory - fourteen disabled by the Scurvy one attending the Sick - Wm Sinclair afsisting me packing small Articles for inland, rest cooking &c Nicholas Spence brought home from the woods disabled by a fall on the ice. Two men returned from Nelson River Hunting Tent with 120 Partridges"

Mar. 19
" Tuesday Gusts of wind Northerly, Cloudy severe and thick drift
All hands variously employed in House. Traded with Natives of Sunday"

Mar. 20
" Wednesday Clear and severe with variable breezes Westerly. Mens employ as on Monday. Hunters went to their Tent. one man dismifsed from the Surgeons List and one added thereto disabled by the Scurvy"

Mar. 21
" Thursday Winds Northerly weather mens employ and sick as before
Natives of Sunday went away by whom I sent several presents to Indians inland - It was intention to have sent Wm Sinclair with them to collect and mark all Bundles of furrs belonging to my home guards, but when I consulted with one of my Natives who has much authority among them, he afsured me he would pursue every step to preserve the furrs equal to any Englishman, that a number of them were by this time a considerable distance from the Canadian's Houses. and who has agreed to meet him on his return at a place appointed for building their canoes. I begin to feel more than ever the great lofs this Factory will sustain not having the Boat sent as per? Indent last year to convey Goods up this River. The deplorable state of John Robinson the Boat Builder will prevent the large new Boat sent out in frame being put together or from others being repaired. and the Shallop, and Sloop, will I fear be totally neglected, unlefs Mr Ballanden can spare his Shipwright, for whom I intend writing so soon as the Goose Hunt is over"

Mar. 22
" Friday Northerly Breezes part Clear part Cloudy and Severe. Mens employ nearly as before. Two men came from the Eastward Tents with only 95 Partridges"

Mar. 23
" Saturday Light Airs variable Clear, mild and thawing. - Hunters of yesterday went to their Tents. gave orders for three to bring home their bedding to afsist in large Sled. One man brought from the Woods disabled by the Scurvy. Four came home to bake bread &c. rest nearly as before"

Mar. 24
" Sunday Stormy Gales Northerly with drifting Snow. part Clear part Cloudy and severe. Wooders went to their Tent."

Mar. 25
" Monday Northerly Breezes Clear and Severe
Two men came from Nelson River Tent with 120 Partridges. Rest of men and Sick nearly as last week except Thomas Pybus Carpenter added to Sick list"

Mar. 26
" Tuesday Light Breezes Westerly Clear. hunters of yesterday went to their Tent. Mens employ and sick nearly as before"

Mar. 27
" Wednesday Light airs variable from West to South Clear mild and thawing. Three men came from the Eastward Tents with their bedding to afsist in large Sled. Rest nearly as before"

Mar. 28
" Thursday Fresh breezes Northerly clear and severe. Thomas Pybus on duty - The hunters of yesterday joined the Sled Party. rest nearly as before"

Mar. 29
" Friday Variable Breezes from West to South. part Clear part Cloudy. One man came from the Eastward Tents with only 86 Partridges. Divine Service"

Mar. 30
" Saturday Fresh Breezes NNW Cloudy with drifting snow. Mens employ and sick as before - Four men came from the Woods to bake bread &c. Two brought home their bedding from thence to afsist in buildings"

Mar. 31
" Sunday Variable light Breezes all round the Compafs. Clear and mild. Divine Service. This morning an Indian Man died on the Plantation. he had been in a Languishing condition ever since his return from Severn with the Packet - He was a valuable Hunter to this Factory and did not procure lefs than 250 Br? annually for the Hon'ble Company. his death will be a lofs as he was quiet and obliging and what is singular for a Native he was sober. Wooders of yesterday went to their tent."

April 1 1793
" Monday Wind and Weather nearly the same. Smith Cooper and one man at work for inland. Taylors for Trade. Sixteen hauling Stockades from Ten Shilling Creek. Seven at Hunting Tents. Eighteen men laid up with the Scurvy part of whom so bad they cannot remove from their beds. One man attending the Sick. All those who were useful at the Pit saw have been disabled for some time, what makes it more distrefsing - Mr Thomas tells me all his Medicines and antiscorbutics are expended. Our situation is truly deploable and the scarcity of Game still continues. scarcely a man at this factory is wholly free from that dreadful disorder the Scurvy - Eight Officers at Old York - The Carpenters and rest at New York afsisting me fixing up the frame work of Distil House. I am anxious to get this forward that I may have strong Spirits in readinefs for the inland Settlements. as I much fear very few of the young hands will be able to undertake the Journey the ensuing winter, unlefs kind Providence works a miracle in their favour. Two men came from Nelson River hunting Tent with a few Partridges"

Apr. 2
' Tuesday Wind SE part Clear part Cloudy Mild and thawing. Mens employ nearly as yesterday Sick the same and Hunters went to their Tent"

Apr. 3
" Wednesday Light Airs and gentle breezes Southerly Clear mild and thawing. much water on the River Ice
Mens employ and sick nearly as before - All the Invalid home guards removed acrofs the River for the Goose Hunt. In the afternoon four families of Natives came in to afsist killing Geese"

Apr. 4
" Thursday Wind and Weather nearly as yesterday and Mens employ the same except those with large sled - who are employed trimming and peeling Stockades -
The warm weather having melted so much snow prevents the large sled working on the River ice on which the Water is very deep - I never yet have seen in this Country so much snow difsolved in so short a time as have been within these two days past - every low place is now filled with sheets of water"

Apr. 5
" Friday Northerly breezes Cloudy with light Snow - much the same as that which falls in England. Mens employ and Sick nearly as on Wednesday. One man came from the Eastward Tent with a few Partridges. The Natives of Wednesday past paid debt and Traded"

Apr. 6
" Saturday Wind weather and mens employ nearly as yesterday. All the men came from the woods with their Tent and Bedding. The Hunter went to his Tent. Ordered all those to the Eastward to remove with Tent &c to the fourteens River to be in readinefs to afsist at the Goose Hunt"

Apr. 7
" Sunday Wind and Weather nearly as before PM severe Cold. The Natives of yesterday went acrofs the River"

Apr. 8
" Monday Northerly breezes Clear. Sixteen men hauling Stockades to the Factory from Ten Shilling Creek. Eighteen laid up with the Scurvy unable to do any Duty. Nicholas Spence confined to his bed with a Broken Bone. The rest nearly as last week. Two came from Nelson River Tent with a few Partridges. one of whom brought home his bedding to afsist at the Factory"

Apr. 9
" Tuesday Southerly Breezes Clear and Mild
Mens employ and sick nearly the same. One Hunter went to his Tent"

Apr. 10
" Wednesday Variable light Airs all round the Compafs. Cold. Men as before"

Apr. 11
" Thursday Fresh Breezes Northerly. Cloudy with light snow. Mens employ nearly as before. Two of the Eastward hunters came home with their bedding. Two remain at the Fourteens to collect brush and firewood for the Goose Tent. Loaded large Sled with Salt Casks &c"

Apr. 12
" Friday Wind the same Clear weather
Sent sixteen men to haul large Sled to the Fourteens River with necefsaries for the Goose Tent. rest as before"

Apr. 13
" Saturday Wind the same severe Cold. Sent Powder &c to the Fourteens River Goose Tent. - Rest of Men as before - except Nicholas Spence who is dangerously ill - North River hunters came home with Tent and bedding"

Apr. 14
" Sunday Wind the same Cloudy with light Snow
About nine O'Clock this morning died Nicholas Spence the Elder. a Fall which he received on the River Ice the 18th Ult. confined him to his bed and being tainted with the Scurvy brought on his difsolution very rapidly. About noon Mr Auld Surgeon accompanied by an Indian arrived from Churchill with Medicines & 200 lbs of green Venison"

Apr. 15
" Monday Wind nearly the same. Clear.
Carpenter making a Coffin four digging a Grave. rest nearly as last week. In the Evening buried the remains of Nicholas Spence Senior
The Natives came from their Tent acrofs the River and had their annual Treat prior to the Goose Hunt"

Apr. 16
" Tuesday Light Breezes Variable SW part Clear part Cloudy. Mens employ nearly as last week except Mefs Donald and Sinclair with Six men packing Goods for inland"

Apr. 17
" Wednesday Wind Weather Mens employ and Sick the Same"

Apr. 18
" Thursday The same. In the Evening a thick fog"

Apr. 19
" Friday Variable light Airs part Clear part Cloudy. Mens employ and Sick nearly the same. Set the Lime Kiln. Fixed up Worm Tub & Back? in Distil House"

Apr. 20
" Saturday Wind and Weather nearly the Same
No work done by men. allowed them this day to take up necefsaries from the Ware house for the last time this Season in order to close the Books. This morning three fanilies of Natives, twenty in number came in for the Goose season, among whom are only four Hunters. paid Debts and part traded. Prepared Letters and closed the Packet for Churchill. One man came from the Fourteens River for provisions"

Apr. 21
" Sunday AM Variable Breezes with showers of Rain. Noon clear. PM fresh Breezes NW b W Cloudy with Rain and light Snow "

Apr. 22
" Monday Fresh Breezes NW clear and Severe
This morning Mr Auld and Churchill Packet Indian set off on their return. Seven men packing Goods for inland. eight carrying Stockades up the bank. Cooper and Smith preparing Casks and Guns for the Goose Tent. Taylors at work for Trade - Eighteen laid up with the Scurvy. rest nearly as before. Natives of Saturday finished Trade and two came from the Fourteens Tent"

Apr. 23
" Tuesday NW Breezes part Clear part Cloudy and severe. Had Lime Kiln drawn and Lime hauled up to New York. afterwards men amusing? themselves with small Arms. Natives of Saturday and those of Yesterday went acrofs to the Fourteens"

Apr. 24
" Wednesday Fresh Breezes SE Cloudy. Sent fourteen men with large Sled to the Goose Tent but they could not reach the Fourteens River the water being so deep occaisioned by Crofs Creek ice giving way. rest of Men employed as before"

Apr. 25
" Thursday A continual heavy rain all last Night AM light snow with gentle Breezes NW Cloudy. PM variable light airs mild and thawing. All the able hands not engaged on inland duty employed carrying Stockades up the Bank"

Apr. 26
" Friday Sharp freezing weather early AM afterwards mild and Clear with variable light Airs
Sent twelve men with Large Sled to haul Canoes for the use of the Fourteens River Hunters. Cooper and others belonging to the Tent went from Crofs Creek in Canoes - Rest as before"

Apr. 27
" Saturday Variable breezes Cloudy. Finished carrying Stockades up the Bank and trading Goods for inland. Tobacco Powder and Brandy excepted - I followed the same plan as heretofore and packed up Goods different for each Settlement to prevent confusion when Servants arrive from inland Settlements"

Apr. 28
" Sunday Northerly Breezes Cloudy with Hail & Sleet and Snow
The Cooper came from the Fourteens River accompanied by two Natives they tell me all the Rivers and Creeks to the Eastward are broken up and that several of the Natives narrowly escaped drowning in going from the Factory to the Tent. one of whom a Woman died soon after. Indians went away"

Apr. 29
" Monday Northerly Breezes cloudy & Severe
All hands variously employed in House. Sick as before"

Apr. 30
" Tuesday AM Wind and Weather nearly the Same. PM Clear & moderate with variable light Breezes
Two Men at the Fourteens River Goose Tent, sent six to repair Deer Hedge and set snares - Eighteen men on sick list, nine of whom are very bad at old York. rest variously employed part for inland and part for Trade. others on factory duties"

May 1 1793
" Wednesday Variable Breezes NE part Clear part Cloudy. Light snow fell last night
Mr Sutherland went up the River to look for Game - Two came from the Fourteens River and returned to their Tent - Three? making inland canoe tracking lines. rest nearly as before"

May 2
" Thursday Variable Breezes E b N Clear - light snow fell last night. Sent remainder of sick down to Old York to be under the immediate direction of the Surgeon. Rest nearly as before"

May 3
" Friday Wind and Weather nearly the same
Labourers employed removing Goods from Launch House into Ware houses rest and sick as before"

May 4
" Saturday Fresh Gales Southerly Clear.
The few Labourers fit for duty employed taking Goods down to Old York for Trading Indians. I find it impofsible to get up Stockades around the works this spring. as upwards of thirty men are now disabled by the scurvy. To have drunken Indians at this place without boundaries to keep them from coming to the House. there is no knowing to what excefs they may carry their frolicks as a Native when intoxicated is? oftentimes daring and outrageous. Rest of Men as before"

May 5
' Sunday Wind as Weather as before. Mr Sutherland came to the Factory with only four Geese which were drefsed for the Sick"

May 6
" Monday AM Wind and Weather the same. PM Cloudy with showers of rain. towards evening wind veered Northerly. Eleven men packing Tobacco for the inland settlements Cooper preparing Rundlets and Smith Hatchets &c. two collecting setting Poles and preparing them for Boats. Sick the Same. Mr Sutherland John Buden and an Indian youth set off to tent in the Marsh. two men afsisting them with their things and to cut firewood. rest variously engaged"

May 7
" Tuesday Cloudy weather with Northerly Breezes raw cold with Hail &c. mens employ nearly as yesterday - French Creek ice broke up & found a pafsage to Sea"

May 8
" Wednesday Clear freezing weather with NW Breezes very sharp. Began distiling for inland Trade. Mens employ and Sick nearly as before"

May 9
" Thursday Variable Breezes SE Clear and mild
Began fixing up Stockades around distil house. Men not employed in this duty nearly as before - Ten shilling creek ice gave way - An Indian came from the fourteens River with one Goose and went to his Tent"

May 10
" Friday Wind weather and mens employ nearly the same. Mr Sutherland sent eight Geese from the Marsh which were served out to the Sick men"

May 11
" Saturday Fresh Gales Northerly severe freezing weather with Hail
All hands variously employed in House Slinging Bundles and Rundlets for inland. Sick as before. River ice gave way in several places above the Flats and the South Channel appears open. I am sorry to remark the English Brandy sent out is so weak that it loses more than two thirds to make it the strength required for inland, yet notwithstanding the great apparent lofs your Honours will I hope gain considerable advantage in the carriage to the upper settlements"

May 12
" Sunday Easterly Breezes Cloudy and Cold towards evening squally with snow. Caught one deer in hedge which was served out immediately"

May 13
" Monday AM Cloudy with drifting snow strong Gales Northerly. PM more moderate and Clear very cold and severe for the season of the year and very much against the recovery of the Sick whose list increases daily. Mens employ and Sick nearly as last week. Mr Sutherland came from his Tent with a few Geese and ducks and returned back"

May 14
" Tuesday Breezes WSW and variable SW Clear - Three men added to the Sick list six employed fixing up the Stockades around distil House. Hunters and sick as before. all the rest employed on inland duties - Three Natives came from the Fourteens Goose Tent with 25 Geese which were immediately distributed to the Men"

May 15
" Wednesday AM Breezes Southerly Clear and fine. PM fresh Breezes NE Cloudy and thick fog. Mens employ and sick as before"

May 16
" Thursday AM Breezes NE Cloudy and raw cold. PM rain which continued during the night.
Mens employ and sick as before except one man sent to the Goose Tent in Marsh on his return brought 10 Geese and 14 ducks. River ice upwards gave way"

May 17
" Friday AM Light Airs SE Cloudy. The River ice pafsed the Factory last night. The water not rising above the usual height of spring tides. Noon Clear. PM much Thunder and Lightning with rain towards evening. Mens employ and sick nearly the same. An Indian and Family arrived well loaded with furrs. says the River Ice upwards broke up twenty two day ago. and that he has been ever since on his Journey to the Factory following the ice as it gave way. He tells me there has been a very heavy deluge up the River but that the water is now so low, he does not think it pofsible for any of the Timber cut? down? in the Winter can be rafted to the Factory - Should it prove as the Indian says it will at once overturn my plan of conveying Goods up to the first fall this spring
Finished filling the Powder Rundlets for inland. slinging Tobacco Bundles &c. I have every thing in readinefs to load 70 Canoes. In ten days time I hope to finish at my distilling for this season"

May 18
" Saturday Fine clear weather with variable Breezes ESE
Sent three men up the River in Boat to try for Fish. returned with about 20 lbs of Trout. received from Marsh 28 Geese. Rest of Men employed nearly as before"

May 19
" Sunday Strong Gales NE Cloudy. towards evening light snow severe cold freezing weather
Early in the morning Three men set off in a Canoe and four in a Boat to set Nets and Angle for fish returned with about 50 lbs"

May 20
" Monday Strong Gales E by N with drifting snow severe freezing weather
All able hands variously employed in house. Hunters and sick as before"

May 21
" Tuesday Wind weather and mens employ nearly the same. the sick much worse and their number increase daily. few men are left fit for duty."

May 22
" Wednesday Fine clear weather with variable light Breezes
Sent three invalids to overhaul Nets. three? to the Marsh for Geese. Six to raft home Fire wood. Cooper and one man mending Boats. Smith at work for inland - Taylor for Trade - Carpenter & two Men building south Flanker - Twenty two disabled by the Scurvy - Hunters & rest as before. Sent off 2 Native to look for Deer. Received 86 Geese from Mr Sutherland 10 lbs of Fish"

May 23
" Thursday Wind weather and sick nearly the same. Sent men to overhaul nets and three to Marsh rest carrying wood up Bank. Received 113 Geese from Mr Sutherland. 30 lbs Fish"

May 24
" Friday Much heavy rain last night which continued till nine this morning afterwards it cleared up with Southerly Breezes - Three men spinning line and making rope for Boats Painters? Rest nearly as before.received 1 Deer from hedge"

May 25
" Saturday Northerly breezes part Clear part Cloudy and cold. towards Evening Snow Sleet & Hail
Mr Donald accompanied by four men set off to angle for fish at Ten Shilling creek. as did Mefs Thomas and Sinclair to Dram Creek to collect Vegetables for sick. Rest as before"

May 26
" Sunday Hail and Snow with gusts of wind during last night which continued till 8 AM when it became clear and moderate. The Officers of yesterday returned with a few fish and Vegetables - The Indians I sent up the River returned with the flesh of four Deer"

May 27
" Monday AM Pleasant Breezes SSE Clear & fine. PM variable NE - Tradesmen Hunters and Sick as last week. Sent three Men to the Marsh for Geese. Four collecting Lime Stones. Rest variously employed. Received 86 Geese"

May 28
" Tuesday Southerly breezes Clear
Mr Sutherland (being almost blind? and few Geese on the Coast) came home from the Marsh with his Tent & Bedding. Mens employ & sick nearly the same - In the Afternoon Ten Canoes of Home Guard Natives arrived. apparently very poor in Furrs"

May 29
" Wednesday Wind and weather nearly the same.
Sent off sixteen Men to raft home Timber and Sawed stuff &c cut down last winter near the head of Steel River. Sent Mr Donald with them to see the state of the River. It is singular extraordinary that every one of the Men on this Establishment should be so much against taking Trading Goods in Boats up this River. but so it is - I find numberlefs obstructions thrown in my way to prevent its being set on foot. The Pateroon now at York, resided many years down the Bay, has been up this and Steel River, reports very favourably of getting up loaded Boats - since which he has led a very among his fellow servants and is threatned with rough usage when Mr Tomison and men arrived from inland - Indeed I should not wonder if their threats were at that time to be put in execution - There are several Men at the Upper Settlements who have been used rather roughly for speaking their sentiments. their knowing that Boats were taken loaded up much worse Rivers than this is - I can only say when a superiour Officer sets his face against an Undertaking that appears disagreeable to the inferiour servants. it is in vain for me to attempt any mode of facilitating businefs notwithstanding I am certain this mode of conveying goods will be the saving of many hundred pounds annually to my Employers I understand the reason afsigned of the Servants in general being so much set against having Boats introduced is that it will lefsen the consequence of the Steersman and Canoe Builder and prevent their having frequent opportunities of making exorbitant demands for advance of wages as they do at present. A Bricklayer, Carpenter, Cooper & Smith variously employed. these are all the tradesmen I have had this year except the Taylors therefore it cannot be expected much can be done towards building. a person? came out as Boat Builder but has not been able to do a day's work since he landed. The rest with Sick & Officers at Old York. Six Canoes of home guard Natives arrived with a small quantity of Furrs - I am apprehensive the Canadians have had share of their winter hunt tho' the Natives deny it. They say all kind of Animals were so scarce last winter that it was with difficulty they kept themselves and families from starving"

May 30
" Thursday Fresh Breezes Easterly Clear. Early all able hands variously employed at old York 'till we saw a smoke at French Creek, when every one were sent with Boats acrofs the River, on their return brought all the Hunters from the Fourteens - It gives me concern to mention their bad succefs as only ten Casks have been salted this spring - The whole killed this Season by English and Indian Hunters do not amount to more than 15 which makes it very expensive to your Honors. Our expectations more great as the number of Hunters exceeded any preceeding season for seven years past. Two Englishmen remain at the Fourteens to receive and salt Venison as Natives kill Deer"

May 31
" Friday Wind and Weather as Yesterday
Seven Canoes of upland Natives arrived tolerable well loaded with furrs - all hands variously employed attending and trading with Natives
Received 7 Sturgeon"

June 1 1793
" Saturday Southerly Breezes. Sultry
Part of the Goose Hunters of Thursday went acrofs to their freinds. and three canoes of Natives arrived. Mens employ and sick as before. Received one Deer from Hedge and one from Natives"

June 2
" Sunday Wind and Weather as before
Muskatoes numerous and troublesome. Engaged with Natives the whole day. In the Afternoon eighteen canoes of Home Guards crofsed the River to kill Deer"

June 3
" Monday Wind and Weather nearly the same
Flies so numerous and troublesome as to prevent men doing their duty - The sick much mended in their health tho' very few able to remove without the help of Crutches. Three Canoes of Home Guards went away and in the afternoon three Canoes of Natives arrived with Mr Cook who tells me his Trade at Chatham House is about 2000 Br and that at Seepaywick the settlement erected last fall nearly the same. and that the Canadians were very unsuccefsful, 'till they found out part of my half home guards wintering ground where they visited their Tents and collected a quantity of furrs from them. This accounts for the poor trade brought down by the Home Guards this season but Mr Cook tells me he is fully confident from his own observation, and from what he heard the Canadian masters declare that their expenditure of Goods this last season had been double the value of the Furrs collected by them. They are liberal in distributing their Liquor among them? Natives below to keep the Hon'ble Companys Servants in action and to prevent their being employed in places where greater profit arises, which enables them to do much in opposing the lower settlements - Mr Cook farther tells me that Mr David Thompson accompanied by John Harper and an Indian Pilot set forward on a Journey of Discovery the same day he left Chatham House. for particulars I refer your honours to Country Correspondence vide? Letter from Mr D. Thompson dated the [blank] Ult. Late in the evening three Canoes of upland Indians arrived"

June 4
" Tuesday NE Breezes raw cold with thick fog
Engaged with Natives the whole day. Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Labourers and sick nearly as before. Set Lime Kiln"

June 5
" Wednesday AM Variable wind PM Breezes NE with light snow and hail
Mens employ nearly as before
Seven Canoes of Natives went away and three Canoes of Play Green Indians arrived. they had not 40 Beaver among the whole and those are what they killed coming to the Factory. They were candid enough to tell me that the Canadians came to their Tent with great quantities of Liquor which was distributed very freely among them by which means while intoxicated they collected the whole of their winters hunt. amounting to about 18 or 20 Bundles of Furrs of 40 or 50 Beaver each. and they farther tell me their companions are one and all very much difstrefsed for necefsaries to provide for their families"

June 6
" Thursday Wind and weather nearly the same
Three Canoes of Natives went away as did one Canoe of do. that accompanied Mr Cook. He took a Keg of Powder and some Twine. both Chatham and Seepaywick are destitute of those Articles. Eleven of the Sick came from old York"

June 7
" Friday Northerly Breezes part Clear part Cloudy - The remaining part of Natives went away - Mefs Thomas & Cook went up the River to look for Deer. Part of Men drying skins rest nearly as before. Thomas Pybus Carpenter received? an accident by a fall, which I am afraid will disable him from work for some time."

June 8
" Saturday Wind weather and mens employ the same. Had Lime Kiln drawn."

June 9
" Sunday Wind Variable almost round the Compafs part Clear part Cloudy. Mr Donald returned from Hill River. his report favourable tho' from the conversation and declaration of men he is apprehensive - injury will be done to the first? Boats that are sent with Trading Goods to prevent the plan being pursued. Mefs Thomas and Cook returned to the Factory, say no Game of any kind to be seen. Three Canoes of Natives arrived with green Venison which they traded and went away. Sent off three men in Canoes to convey provisions to the woods. he tells me they have not had any thing to eat for three days past "

June 10
" Su      Wind and weather nearly as yesterday
Sent five men in Boat to the fourteens River for Geese. they returned in the afternoon with five hogsheads. the men left there to salt Venison returned with their Tent and bedding. they say there are no Deer and that the Indians are all coming to the Factory as their families were starving. In the afternoon the Wooders returned with 19 Rafts of Timber, Plank and Boards Part of men engaged sorting and tying up Furrs"

June 11
" Monday Wind and weather nearly as yesterday
All able hands engaged carrying wood up the bank"

June 12
" Wednesday Much snow fell last night which was several inches deep on the ground this morning. Northerly breezes part clear part cloudy. Men as before"

June 13
" Thursday The same. finished carrying wood up the bank"

June 14
" Friday Wind and weather as before. Sent 10 men to raft home firewood, returned in the evening with two rafts. Ten at work at new Building. Seven of the Invalids collecting and cleaning Bricks. rest variously employed. Ten Canoes of Home Guard Natives arrived very poor in furrs. indeed the produce of all their Trade falls short of any preceding year many thousand beaver "

June 15
" Saturday Variable Breezes all round the Compafs Clear and fine. Sent off Mr Donald, the Pateroon and nine men in Boat with Trading Goods to the Rock in Hill River, an expedition I am confident, if enforced, will be a great benefit to my employers. In order to prevent any obstacle being started by the Servants returning from inland going back with Goods. they are fitted out with every article of Provisions. Liquor &c the same as when they set off from the Factory. many objections were made by the young hands now sent with Boat, of the displeasure and ill will of their fellow servants &c inland would bear towards them for going up with Boat. - I made no hesitation in telling them that every one who refused would be considered as men denying duty and treated as such, they then willingly set off. I hope to put in execution this Summer a plan I have had long in agitation is for Canoes to make two trips from Cumberland House which will be of great utility as will be the means of conveying a large quantity of trading Goods to the upper Settlements as well as bringing those furrs from Cumberland which have lain so many years uselefs - In order to accomplish this object I promised to recommend all those who made two trips inland to the Hon'ble Company to be allowed trip Money as encouragement to them. In this I humbly hope your honours will comply as it will be a spur to their exertions"

June 16
" Sunday Variable ? part Clear, part cloudy with flying showers
Natives of Friday went away. and one Canoe arrived with dried Meat. which they traded and went away"

June 17
" Monday AM Variable Breezes part Clear, part Cloudy with flying showers. PM stiff Breezes NE raw cold. in the evening severe frost. Sent 10 men to raise the Craft on skids - five packing goods for Mr Cook. Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Ten with Boat up the River - Rest variously engaged. The remainder of Sick came from Old York except John Robinson Boat Builder and James Thompson Labourer neither of whom have done a day's work since they landed"

June 18
" Tuesday Wind and Mens employ nearly the Same. weather remarkably severe for the season of the Year. all our Vegetables are entirely destroyed by the severity of the frosty night. the ice this morning was nearly 1/2 inch thick on the ponds of water around"

June 19
" Wednesday Wind weather and men employ'd nearly the same 'till the afternoon when I sent 10 Men to raft Firewood from Ten shilling creek"

June 20
" Thursday Part Clear, part Cloudy weather with variable light Snow. towards evening showers of Rain. Five men packing furrs rest nearly as before. Three men arrived from Chatham, say their Companions have been laying at Flambro' House for three days past, the sea running too high for them to round the point of Marsh - Three Canoes of Natives arrived"

June 21
" Friday AM Variable light Airs. PM Breezes Northerly Cold foggy weather
All hands nearly as before 'till afternoon when obliged to man the Boat to fetch Natives from acrofs the River. All the Home Guards came from the Factory almost starving. This morning Tide, nine Englishmen afsisted by 5 Natives arrived in three large and three small Canoes from Chatham House with a fine Cargo of Furrs - Part of the Trade is left up, but I hope to have the whole brought down by Englishmen who are to make two trips which will be a considerable saving to the Hon'ble Company. besides it will enable the men who are to reside at those Settlements next winter to have better than they did last, as they can take up a larger quantity of Grain &c. Mr Cook tells me they were many times in want of a meal and often so for days together"

June 22
" Saturday Fresh Breezes Northerly Clear
The men I sent to the Woods on Wednesday last returned with six rafts part Timber part Firewood and Stockades rest as before"

June 23
" Sunday Wind and weather the same
Paid Natives for afsisting Englishmen down with Furrs and taking up Bundles of Trading Goods to Chatham House and six Canoes set off"

June 24
" Monday Southerly breezes Clear and Sultry
Muskatoes numerous and troublesome - Sent eight men to moor the Craft in the River. It gives me concern mentioning that the Sloop Shallop and Long Boat are in bad condition and so leaky it would be unsafe to trust them out of the River. - I have no man that will undertake doing any thing to them. and judge I must be under the necefsity of doing that duty myself as I was obliged to attend the repairing of every boat. Rest of men variously engaged. Sent off twelve Canoes of Home Guard Natives up Nelson River to look for Deer. and three Canoes of Natives set off with Trading Goods for Chatham House. All the rest of Home Guards afsisting carrying wood up the Bank."

June 25
" Tuesday Breezes SW Clear and Sultry. Muskatoes very numerous and troublesome. Sloop, Shallop & Long Boat brought up the River and anchored facing New York. All hands variously employed cleaning warehouses to receive furrs from inland. Sent men in Boat acrofs the River with three families of Natives"

June 26
" Wednesday AM Sultry with Southerly Breezes and showers of Rain. PM a continual heavy rain Sultry & Muskatoes very numerous & very troublesome. Sent ten men to raft home fire wood &c. the rest variously employed. sent twelve Natives with two Englishmen to haul the Seine Net. only caught 16 small fish. The Natives put acrofs yesterday returned with one Deer which was immediately distributed among the Men."

June 27
" Thursday AM Wind Variable much rain PM Cloudy with showers of Rain and variable Breezes NE. Men variously employed in House"

June 28
" Friday Breezes NW Cloudy - Sent two Englishmen with Natives to haul the Seine. they only caught three Tickameg and a few Suckers. Men variously employed. It was my intention to have sent off the North River Men with Trading Goods in order to settle a House in the Musqua Rat Country. but am apprehensive it will occaision jealousy in Mr Tomison - Therefore I defer fitting out Canoes till he arrives. indeed we have only two that are fit for the Journey. and those have made two trips inland since they were left down condemned as unsafe for men to trust themselves in. yet with the repairs I have done to them they have taken up Goods for two years past"

June 29
" Saturday Variable light Breezes. Muskatoes numerous & troublesome. This morning Mr Isham accompanied by eighteen men arrived in Six large Canoes with about 4000 MB. He tells me his Trade this year is much lefs than that of last owing to the number of Canadian Houses around him. He tells me also that a new Company is formed at Montreal and came in last Summer thro' a different track than that by the way of the Grand Portage. the Articles they brought with them very much resemble the Goods of the Hon'ble Company - two Natives that came down with Mr Isham showed me a piece of their corded Cloth which so nearly resembles that in our Warehouse that I could not distinguish one from the other. yet they sell it to the Natives at the rate of two yards for three Beaver - and as these new Traders brought in six large Canoes loaded with Trading Goods equal to the Cargoes of 20 of ours, it is no wonder their succefs in trade at Swan River was greater than the Old Canadian Company & Mr Isham, as they disposed of their Goods much cheaper to the Natives than our Standard will allow-
The unhappy dispute between the Cumberland House Natives and those from Swan River two years ago and the threats made use of to the latter by Mr Tomison has entirely drove a large Tribe from the interest of the Hon'ble Company and they have one and all given up all thought of ever visiting the lower settlements. so Mr Isham tells me"

June 30
" Sunday Wind Weather & flies the same"

July 1 1793
" Monday Wind & Weather the same with flying showers
Mr Isham & his people packing furrs. the Men came home from ten shilling creek with 10 Rafts of Firewood. Rest variously employed. Sent of six men up this River to look for Deer"

July 2
" Tuesday Fresh Breezes Easterly part Clear part Cloudy. towards evening showers of Rain
Part of Men employed carrying wood up the Bank. rest nearly as before"

July 3
" Wednesday AM Wind nearly as before with thick fog. PM part Clear part Cloudy and Sultry. Muskatoes very troublesome
This morning Mefs Rofs & Thomas the Surgeon arrived accompanied by six Englishmen and two Natives in two large Canoes from Cumberland House with 24 Packs of Furrs. They bring the melancholy news of the death of Mr William Walker who died the [blank] October - James Oman died [blank]
and of William Allen being drowned on the Great Rapid in his pafsage up last season the [blank] August - also that Nicholas Allan Jun. was drown the [blank]. They also brought down John Wood from Cumberland House having lost two of his Fingers and the use of his left hand by the bursting of a Gun. All these Accidents happening this Year together with the Canadian Servants leaving? this Employ is a severe stroke to the inland Concerns as it stops many canoes of furrs being brought down. But what surprises is there are no lefs than four Canoes left with a large quantity of Furrs at the Lake Winnipeg. with what view I cannot tell. neither can I account for this method being pursued unlefs, as it has been before remarked, to prevent the Canoes being employed elsewhere. Mr Rofs tells me Mr Tomison will be as? soon as he has fixed the Canoes that are to return with the Trading Goods sent up in Boat
Mens employ nearly as before. Sent off six canoes of home guards to look for Deer."

July 4
" Thursday Wind weather and Mens employ as before - This afternoon Mefs Tomison & Bird accompanied by fifty Englishmen and many Indians arrived in seventeen large and one small Canoes loaded with Furrs. nine Men in three Canoes having returned from Hill River with Trading Goods sent up in Boat"

July 5
" Friday Wind and weather nearly the Same and Mens employ as before - Had furrs removed from Launch House into the Warehouse. This afternoon Mr Donald and party returned with Boat loaded with Three canoes cargoes of furrs - The Home Guards brought in upwards of 30 head? of Deer"

July 6
" Saturday Variable Breezes part Clear part Cloudy - Part of the inland Men packing furrs - finding that only twelve Bundles were packed during the day. I undertook to pack the whole provided Mr Tomison would prepare for Men returning inland which was agreed to and Package Book was delivered up"

July 7
" Sunday Breezes NE Raw Cold part Clear part Cloudy - Engaged on inland Businefs the whole day"

July 8
" Monday Fresh Breezes Northerly raw cold and thick fog. Cloudy
Sent 18 men to raft home firewood. Held a council to engage Men - Find as usual a general combination amongst the Servants one and all stand out for advance of Wages. those whose times expire this Season will not enter into any farther Contract but are as they say determined to go home by the next ship. But as a Variety of Businefs is now in agitation we come to the resolution of sending all those whose times are expiring and will not enter into further Contract in Canoes to bring down the furrs left at Lake Winnipeg - also the Furrs left at Chatham House To prevent the Men from entering into any Combination and refusing their duty which we have every reason to expect will be the case we thought prudent to examine into many transactions very detrimental to our employers interest That took place at Swan River and Seepaywick Settlements - At the former Mr Isham was treated very roughly by his Men during the winter and threatened to be used ill by them. Their disobedience was carried to great Lengths and as Laughton Taylor appeared a Ringleader at that house he was called before the Council and severly reprimanded and it was ordered that he be appointed to accompany the Men to Lake Winnipeg to bring down the furrs left there. As Mr Isham did not wish to proceed to extremities his future conduct is to determine whether he is to be sent to England or not per? next Ship.
It having also been represented that Mr James Peter Whitford Writer had a purchased a Quantity of Furrs from the Men at Swan River for which he gave Bills on order for Goods to be taken up in his name from the Hon'ble Company's Warehouse at York. and that he afterwards traded the same skins with the Canadians, particularly twenty skins for which he gave an order to the Boson he purchased them up? to three pounds value from out of the Warehouse for which skins he purchased a Gun of Mr. Pangman the Canadian Master at Swan River. - As such proceedings if pafsed over might prove prejudicial to the service it was judged necefsary that Mr. JP Whitford be ordered to the Factory next Summer. and Mr. Isham had orders given him for that purpose that he may be at York in 1794 to wait the arrival of the Ship when the Hon'ble Company's determination respecting him shall be enforced. Mr. Isham acquainted the Council that he would have brought him down this Season but has not a single person that he could leave in Charge of the Goods & House, one and all of his men positively refused to remain inland and necefsity compelled him to leave Mr. Whitford in charge.
Mr Cook having represented to the Council the great lofs the Honble Company sustained by the disobedience of Men and it having been proved that James Spence Jun. was a ringleader at Seepaywick House and his repeated bad conduct having occaisioned Mr Cook much uneasinefs during the last winter, particularly his refusing to accompany natives to bring furrs to the House. His refusal obliged the Natives to apply to the Canadians who set of with them and brought the produce of their hunt from their Tent to a considerable great lofs to the Hon'ble Company. In order to deter men from being guilty of the like in future it was unanimously resolved to fine James Spence Junior 16 Pounds. He was called before the Council and their determination read to him. These steps we are in hopes will have more effect than the severest punishment as they are truly sensible of every thing that effects their pockets."

July 9
" Tuesday Light Airs variable Sultry
Muskatoes numerous and troublesome with flying showers. All hands variously engaged in inland duty except seven sent to the Fourteens for Geese. Three Canoes of Natives arrived"

July 10
" Wednesday The same. Mens employ the same. Home guards brought in the flesh of 40 Deer"

July 11
" Thursday The same. Received three Deer. Three Canoes of Natives set off to Chatham House with Trading Goods"

July 12
" Friday Nearly the same. An Indian set off with trading Goods to Cumberland House and one to Swan River"

July 13
" Saturday Variable light airs Sultry part Clear part Cloudy with showers of Rain
Served out Provisions to Men who are to set off in seven Canoes on Monday next if weather permits. Rest nearly as before"

July 14
" Sunday A storm of Wind and Rain which continued without intermifsion the whole day - Engaged in inland affairs "

July 15
" Monday The same"

July 16
" Tuesday AM the same PM the weather became more moderate. Employ the same. In the evening five canoes of Natives arrived with Furrs from Cumberland House"

July 17
" Wednesday AM Showers of Rain with gusts of Wind Notherly Cloudy PM more Clear with Light Breezes Variable. Engaged on inland Businefs - Laid out Canoes Cargoes"

July 18
" Thursday Light Breezes variable part Clear part Cloudy. Mr Tomison accompanied by 28 Englishmen and three Natives set off in 8 large Canoes with trading Goods to the upper settlements
I must remark that our distrefs this season for Canoes have been severely felt. not one is left at the Factory and it was with difficulty I could get twenty young hands inland. I cannot account for the number of Canoes left at Lake Winnepeg. in short many of the transactions inland appear to me to be involved in mystery
Malcolm Grott a Steersman who accompanied Mefs Turnor & Rofs to the Northward time expires this season. when called before the Council the 7th instant he positively refused to agree to the Hon'ble Company's terms. came to me this morning, wished to enter into contract. having reason to suspect that some underhand steps had been pursued. I questioned him. particularly the reason of his refusing such advantageous terms before the Council. his answer was that Mr Tomison had counselled him not to agree to any terms without advising with him. and as he had promised he did not like to fly from his word but he found he was not ike to make better out, he thought it was best to agree at once, before he set off. for he did not approve of returning back from Lake Winnepeg with furrs. As I made a minute of this conversation immediately, I have given the Mans answer to me nearly in his own words which shews plainly that a general combination to injure the service is entered into among the Servants. Sent six men in Long Boat with Salt & Casks to pickle Venison at Flambro House. Three men are to remain there to receive furrs from Natives"

July 19
" Friday Wind and Weather the same
In the afternoon twenty two Englishmen and two Natives set off in six large Canoes to the upper settlements with Trading Goods. It gives me concern I have occaision to remark here after what I said yesterday on the general combination that is? entered into among the men. which rather confirms my afsertion. Just before the Canoes set off this day John Sabiston Steersman acquainted me that his contract would expire next year. that almost every good steersman's time would then be out,and it was his own and their determination to leave this service unlefs their wages were advanced to 25 £ pr Annum. that the long wished for opportunity was at last arrived when the Company must either comply with their terms or the Service would be ruined inland. Join the above and what I mentioned yesterday it is plain that all is not right. The behaviour of Men to Mr Isham at Swan River, the unruly conduct of ? Factory, of those who wintered with Mr Cook up Nelson River as circumstances that shews bad intentions of overturning those infant Settlements. This obliges me to pursue the same plan that I adopted last year. A Native arrived with a few furrs which he traded and set off immediately"

July 20
" Saturday Wind and Weather nearly the same with showers of Rain
Early this morning Mr Isham accompanied by thirteen Englishmen & two Natives set off in four large Canoes with Trading Goods for Swan River settlement. Several men whose times expire this Season have taken up Goods for him as far as Lake Winnipeg and to return with furrs left there to be back by Ship time. The number of hands to be stationed with him are not yet known. Mr Isham is instructed to build a House at the Red River where the Canadians have their stations who intercept the Natives from visiting Swan River. About Noon Mr Cook accompanied by seventeen men set off in four large and middling? Canoes to the Nelson River Settlements. I have given him instructions to erect a house near the Canadian Settlements on Churchill River as I hear it is their intention to build near to the lower settlements this season but I hope by pursuing this plan to divert them from it. I have also given Mr Cook orders in case Churchill River should be found Navigable. and Mr Stayner sends up Englishmen from thence. that he affords them every afsistance in his power
In the afternoon Mefs Thomas & Bird accompanied by twelve Men and two Natives set off in five Canoes with Trading Goods to the upper settlements. I must here observe that Mr Thomas Thomas the Surgeon had Medicines only in his canoe with him (except 8 Guns as Trading Goods) therefore the lofs of this Canoe Cargo cannot be estimated at lefs than 700 Beaver to the Hon'ble Company. besides the expence of three men's wages together with his own amounts to 23 £ I mention this circumstance that your honours may be acquainted with the additional expence of having a Surgeon to reside inland.
Mr Tomison tells me that instead of a Surgeon being a benefit to the upper settlement, the contrary is the case, and he sincerely wishes the Hon'ble Company will ? Mr Thomas Thomas at the expiration of his contract as by his residing with him only occaisions inconvenience and trouble. to prevent this next winter Mr Tomison left a written order for Mr Thomas to pack up a box of Medicines for the upper house and as the South Branch is the ? settlement inland, the Surgeon was ordered to reside there next winter.
The number of canoes returned fitted out from the Factory including those that went back from Hill River with Boat Cargoes are 29 manned by Englishmen besides several small indian ones loaded with Trading Goods. The former are nearly half loaded with high spirits which makes the former only equal to 50 large Canoe Cargoes usually taken inland any preceeding season. Mr Tomison is so much pleased with the Strength of the spirits which he tried various ways. that he declared it was the greatest stroke ever struck for the benefit of inland. And he returned this year fully determined to be revenged on the Canadians as he termed it -for the tricks they have played on him years past - The saving only in mens wages taking up Canoes loaded with high spirits this season cannot be estimated at lefs than £ 500 exclusive of the returns which I hope will exceed four times that Sum.
Young hands taken from the Factory this year inland are James Swain Writer, John Ballenden Labourer, Hugh Brough & John Brough, John Corrigal, George Gutcher, Thomas Gutcher, James Halcro, Thomas Halcro, George Harvey, William Leigh, Robert Randall, Edward Rozie Labourer, Robert Spence Taylor, George Spence Labourer, Thomas Taylor, Robert Whitby and Halcro Smith an old Bowsman left down last year under the Surgeons care. It is impofsible to afsertain the number that will stay inland or to specify where they are stationed as last season. Mr Tomison undertook to fix men for Swan River when he arrived at Lake Winnipeg. Old Servants left down are Mr Rofs, Alexander Thompson, unable to do any duty by bruises he received from Laughton Taylor at Swan River. John Wood an accident received from the bursting of a Gun whereby he lost the use of his left hand. and Magnus Halcro who is delerious at times outrageous"

July 21
"Sunday Clear pleasant weather with variable Breezes
Five Canoes of Natives set off for Cumberland House with Trading Goods (22 Bundles) In the afternoon men returned with Long Boat from Flambro House brought Mr Auld and two Indians they arrived with a Packet from Churchill some days ago and had been waiting on the other side of Nelson River. Mr David Thompson & John Harper returned from their Journey of discovery. the pilot Mr. Thompson engaged to accompany him was unacquainted with the Athapiscow Country which obliged him to return before he had finished his researches and what appears very extraordinary the very friends of those Indians who have undertaken to pilot Englishmen up Churchill River refused to accompany him down and the reason they afsigned was the danger of the pafsage and in fact told him they were not yet tired of their Lives. there is something so mysterious in this that I cannot account for. The Indians who have undertaken to conduct the Englishmen from Churchill are principal men and much respected and are the same who conducted the Canadians into their Country. Mr Thompson brought with him 125 Beaver which he traded on his Journey. Three Natives arrived with a few skins. An Indian and Family arrived."

July 22
" Monday Variable light airs and gentle breezes part Clear part Cloudy. flies numerous & troublesome. About 6 OClock this morning John Robinson Boat Builder was released from his misery - He had laboured under a violent scurvy from the day he landed from the Ship. and has not done any the least duty at the Factory and for the last five months was not able to remove from his bed - Four men digging a Grave, two making a Coffin - as we are under the necefsity to bury the Corse? in the Evening
Employed cleaning out Warehouses wrote letters to Churchill - Two Natives went away"

July 23
"Tuesday Variable Breezes Cloudy with showers of Rain
All hands except Carpenter and Bricklayer engaged carrying wood up the Bank"

July 24
" Wednesday Southerly Breezes Clear
This morning Mr Auld and Indians set off with Packet to Churchill. Sent Mr Donald with them to survey Churchill and Seal River agreeably to Mr Stayners request per? winter packet, which duty he is capable of executing but I am sorry to say his propensity to drinking is so great renders him unfit for any businefs at the factory. it is astonishing the mean artifices he uses to get at Liquor with which he would be in a continual state of inebriation - seeing him so often in that state occaisioned me much unhappinefs since he has been at York and I must say I embraced this first opportunity to get clear of him and should he return from Churchill, I humbly hope your honours will recal him next season.
Three Men accompanied the above in Long Boat to land them on the North shore of Nelson River. rest nearly as before except four who are clearing warehouses to receive Goods from Old Factory as the Officers are preparing to remove from thence to New York. About noon James Spence Sen. Magnus Irvin and James Park returned in a large Canoe from Steel River loaded with Trading Goods. the two former were taken very ill and unable to proceed on their Journey. vide Mr Thomas Surgeons Letter Country Correpondence
In the Evening ten Canoes of Natives arrived with a few Deer skins. having delivered all their dried & green Venison to Mefs Tomison & Isham for which purpose I sent them up the River. They brought down Letters acquainting the Quantity each received"

July 25
" Thursday AM Wind and weather nearly the same. PM showers of Rain with Thunder and Lightning. Mens employ nearly as before. Officers removed from old York. John Jennings and two men reside there to attend and take care of the Gardens. Indians traded part."

July 26
" Friday A storm of wind and Rain with tremendous thunder and lightning during last night AM moderate part Clear part Cloudy with flying showers. PM Calm. Mens employ nearly as before"

July 27
" Saturday NW Breezes Cloudy with showers of Rain. Men variously employed"

July 28
" Sunday Variable light Breezes part Clear part Cloudy. Two Canoes of Natives arrived with green Venison
Mr Thompsons pilot set off with four other Natives with Letters to Mr Cook. should have sent Englishmen with him but have no Canoe fit for the purpose. I have engaged him to go into the Weepooscow Country and find if pofsible the spot where the Churchill people are settled. and to acquaint Mr Cook thereof who is instructed to afford them every afsistance"

July 29
" Monday Breezes NE Cloudy with showers of Rain
Six men packing furrs from inland. Four preparing Beacon, steps &c. rest variously employed. Indians of yesterday went away. sent off several others to hunt for small Game"

July 30
" Tuesday Wind Weather and Mens employ nearly the Same. Towards Evening heavy Rain with Thunder and Lightning"

July 30
" Tuesday Wind Weather and Mens employ nearly the Same. Towards Evening heavy Rain with Thunder and Lightning"

July 31
" Wednesday Wind the same hazy weather
Sent eight men to set Five Fathom Sand Hole Beacon and lay Buoys. One man with Natives hauling Seine Net. It is rather singular that no Fish are to be caught in this River except Suckers. Rest of Men as before"

Aug. 1 1793
" Thursday Continual heavy Rain all last Night with Gusts of Wind. Raw Cold Day. Cloudy with flying Showers fresh Breezes NNW. All hands engaged part fixing up Launch part taking stock"

Aug. 2
" Friday Wind Weather and Mens Employ the same. finished Launch"

Aug. 3
" Saturday Cloudy weather with flying Showers variable Breezes
Sent 6 Men to Ten Shilling Creek, returned in the Evening with three Rafts of Firewood. Rest of Men variously employed"

Aug. 4
" Sunday Wind and Weather nearly the same at times heavy Rain
All the Home Guard Natives returned from Nelson River say no Deer are to be seen. those Animals having crofsed to the Northward far inland. Three Canoes of Natives arrived with Six Bundles of Furrs for Chatham House - They traded all their Furrs with Mr Cook and came down to York purposely to be drefsed and have a drinking bout"

Aug. 5
" Monday Continual heavy Rain with cloudy Weather and variable Breezes. Two Canoes of Natives arrived this Morning, one of whom the Pilot who accompanied Mr Thompson to the Northward and left the Factory the 28th Ult. to convey a Packet to Mr Cook. as? the instructions contained therein are of the utmost importance to the safety and well being of the Men I sent from Churchill I sent him off immediately with a fresh outfit. he promises to make great dispatch
In the Evening three Canoes of Play Green Natives arrived with a few Furrs, Dried Meat & Fat. They traded all their winters Hunt with the Canadians who have a House erected in the Centre of their hunting Ground. It is singular that those enterprizing Traders can afford after traversing over such an extent of Country with their Goods to dispose of them so reasonable as they do to the Indians many Articles for cheaper than the Hon'ble Company's Standard will allow us to sell them. Mr David Thompson tell me he was informed by one of the Canadian Masters that his Employers had given him Instructions to proceed to great lengths in the disposal of his Goods to Natives purposely to keep the Hon'ble Companys servants in play as he terms it, and to divert their attention from objects of greater moment. In this they have so far succeeded as to draw Numbers of Natives from the Hon'ble Companys Interest this Season. The Natives informed me that the Canadians have engaged an Indian to pilot them down the track from the Great Rapid of Lake Winnepeg, and that it is their intention of building a House near to Hill River this fall purposely to intercept all the Home Guards belonging to this Factory"

Aug. 6
" Tuesday An incefsant heavy Rain all last night which continued 'till Noon with ENE Breezes afterwards moderate & Cloudy. Mens employ nearly the same. Natives of Yesterday traded"

Aug. 7
" Wednesday Cloudy with light Breezes variable and mizzling Rain. All the Play Green Indians went away. I am in hopes these Natives will not forsake the Hon'ble Company's interest any more. they promise fair, and by the distrefs their families experienced this Summer, I am in hopes they are now convinced that it is not to their interest to trade their Winter Furrs with the Canadians for Liquor. But their liberality to Indians in this Article has made them a depraved race, and their whole Time so taken up in Drinking. The number of Natives who have fallen Victim to intoxication within these two years past are many and should the Natives continue their practice of carrying their strong spirits to the Tents of Natives. I much fear the whole Country will soon be depopulated for no Native has sufficient prudence to withstand the temptation when Liquor is so near them.
In the afternoon four Canoes of Natives set off with Trading Goods to Chatham House. Home Guard Natives employed carrying wood up the Bank. Mens employ as before"

Aug. 8
" Thursday Wind & Weather the same & Mens employ nearly as before except six packing furrs - Part of Homeguard Natives took up Winter Debt"

Aug. 9
" Friday Much thunder & lightening during last night. Breezes Sly clear -
Sent ten Men to set the double headed Beacon & lay the remainder of the Buoys, afterwards three men set off in the long Boat to Flambro' to bring home James Banks &c - On return of the Men they told me they could not discover the sand at low Water mark where? the double headed Beacon used to stand - Rest of Men as before "

Aug. 10
" Saturday Sultry with light breezes variable? clear - Sent down four men in the Shallop to Anchor near where the double headed Beacon used to stand - Sent also seven men in the Yawl to set the Beacon - Rest of the Men nearly as before - In the afternoon James Banks & James Ballanden returned from Flambro' House, tell me they saw nothing of the long Boat - At flood tide two Vefsels appeared in the offing"

Aug. 11
" Sunday Variable breezes with cloudy foggy weather - About 4 AM the Prince of Wales and Beaver Brig anchored in five fathom hole & in the afternoon Capt. Hanwell & Mr. Robert Longmoor landed with your Honours Packet - Sent one of the Craft down to the Ship"

Aug 12
" Monday Wind variable part clear part cloudy with Rain - The Long Boat came from Flambro' with one Cask of Salt Venison &c - Capt. Hanwell went on board the Ship - Beaver Brig came up and anchored abreast the factory - Small Craft employed going to and returning from the Ship.'


"Entered on our Books"

1 M. John Cornelius Vandriel

2 Henry Hallet - Writer

3 Tho's Swain - Do.
              age
4 James Sinclair - 35 Shipwright -- Stromnefs - £ 36

5 Nichol Spence - 29 Boat Builder - Do. ----- 25

6 James Loutit --- 27 Taylor ------- Harray -- 8

7 John Harper -- 21 Do. ---------- Birsay -- 8
[4,5,6,7 Written in the margin "Contract for 3 years each Wages 22nd June"]

8 James Walter -- 22 Do. ------- Firth ---- 8

9 Honeyman Hay - 20 Joiner ------- Stromnefs - 21
[8,9 Written in the margin "for S. R."]

10 Chris' Miller -- 19 Labourer - Evie --- 6

11 Alex Birston --- 19 Do. - Ronaldsha - 6

12 Willm Sinclair -- 19 Do. returned to England - Harray - 6

13 James Sinclair -- 24 Do. ------------------------ Do. - 6

14 Thomas Strickler - 20 Do.------- Birsay - 6

15 Mag. Hutchinson -- 27 Do. ---- Evie -- 6

16 Tho. Spence ---- 18 Do. ----- Stromnefs - 6

17 Edw. Duncan ---- 40 Do. ------ Ronaldsha - 6

18 John Budge ------ 19 Do. ------ Do. ------- 6

19 John Moar ------- 20 Do. ------ Birsay ---- 6

20 Tho. Louttit ---- 25 Do. ------ Harray ---- 6

21 Nichol Tate ----- 18 Do. and apprentice to the Shipwright - 6
[10 to 21, Written in the margin "Contract for 5 years wages to commence 22d June"]

22 Chris' Robinson - 23 Sailor ---- Evie ----- 18

23 James Rofs ------ 22 Do. ------- Birsay --- 18

24 Henry Leask ----- 26 Do. ------- Rinsale -- 18
[22,23,24 Written in the margin "3 years, Wages of Sailors on? landing"]

25 Edward Tomison -- 36 Labourer -- Stromnefs - 10 - Wages to commence 22d June

26 John Inkster Sailor

27 Samuel Adamson Joiner & House Carpenter

28 William Field Armourer

29 Mich'l Hunt Smith & Armourer
[27,28,29 Written in the margin "Engaged in London"]

Aug. 13
" Tuesday Wind & Weather nearly the same as yesterday. Manned the Sloop Churchill from the Crew of the Beaver Brig & sent it down to the Ship with the Small Craft part of which returned & was unloaded"

Aug. 14
" Wednesday Breezes SE & variable E b N part clear part cloudy. In the evening thunder & lightening. Sloop Churchill came up and unloaded. the Shallop and Long Boat dropt down to the Ship came up & were unloaded - Capt. Hanwell came on shore. The Sloop went down to the Ship"

Aug. 15
" Thursday Gales of wind NNE thick fog and cloudy with flying showers. Sloop Severn unloaded & landed her homeward bound Cargo"

Aug. 16
" Friday Light breezes variable clear & pleasant
Began loading the Severn Sloop from out the Brig, the Shallop, Sloop & Factory long Boat, dropt down to the Ship came up & were unloaded - Sloop also came up. Three families of Indians went away - And in the afternoon Mr Cook & two Englishmen arrived from Nelson River in company with 9 Canoes of Natives part of whom are Chepayan or Athapiscow Indians"

Aug. 17
" Saturday Wind & Weather the same. Sloop and Long Boats unloaded. This morning Mr James Tate & seven men arrived with two Canoe Cargoes of furrs from Cumberland House, they being part of the men who took in the Boats loading from Hill River. Mr Mitchel Oman was obliged to wait near Lake Winnepeg to conduct men & Canoes loaded with furrs from that place.
James Tate brought the melancholy intelligence of the death of John Irvin Sen. who died the 10th Instant on his pafsage up. he was a valuable quiet old Servant, a good Steersman & one of the best Canoe builders in the Services. his peacable disposition, his obliging behaviour & attention to duty makes his lofs the greater & will I fear be felt next Season Inland - One Canoe of Natives arrived"

Aug. 18
" Sunday Variable light breezes clear pleasant weather
Fitted out Mr Vavisor to go down the Bay in the Sloop Severn, delivered him the packet & sailing orders - One Canoe of Natives went away"

Aug. 19
" Monday AM breezes E b N clear - PM fresh breezes Sly with showers of Rain - Sloop Churchill dropt down to the Ship as did the Factory & Ships long Boat - the two latter came up & were unloaded as was the Shallop - Beaver Brig dropt down to the Ship - Sloop Churchill came up. Three Canoes of Natives arrived with a few furrs. Sent Indians acrofs the River to kill Ducks &c"

Aug. 20
" Tuesday Fresh breezes S b W towards evening much thunder and lightening & heavy rain
Unloaded the Sloop Churchill & put on board part of the Homeward bound Cargo. the Shallop & Factory Long Boat dropt down to the Ship came up & were unloaded. This mornings tide the Severn Sloop dropt down to five fathom hole and anchored - Five Natives came from acrofs the River with a few Ducks & Plover, and two Canoes of Indians set off with trading Goods to Chatham House"

Aug. 21
" Wednesday Strong gale Wly part clear part cloudy with showers of Rain. A? heavy rain all last night with thunder & lightening
The Sloop Severn, Mr Vavisor Master, sailed for Albany & Moose. pray God send him a safe & speedy pafsage. Sloop Churchill dropt down to the Ship, Shallop, Ship & Factory long Boats, unloaded and dropt down to the Ship - Traded with Natives & two Canoes went away - Mr Oman accompanied by eleven Englishmen in four Canoes arrived with furrs being their second trip down"

Aug. 22
" Thursday fresh breezes SSW clear towards even'g showers of Rain. Brig came up. Loaded all the other Craft with stones & they dropt down to the Ship. unloaded the Brig. Five Canoes of Natives arrived tolerably loaded with furrs - Long Boat & Shallop came up in the evening"

Aug. 23
" Friday Wind & weather nearly the same. The Shallop & Long Boat were unloaded, the latter dropt down to the Ship. the Sloop came up as did the Ship's Long Boat. Packing furrs
This morning the Queen Charlotte anchored in five fathom hole & in the evening Capt. Turner landed"

Aug. 24
" Saturday Wind & Weather nearly the same. very sultry. Unloaded the Sloop & stored? the small Craft. Shallop & Brig dropt down to the Ship - Packing furrs. Four Canoes of Natives went away with part of the Chepayans. they took several Bundles of Trading Goods for Nelson River Settlements"

Aug. 25
" Sunday Breezes variable from SW to W part clear, part cloudy with showers of Rain. Eleven Canoes of Natives went away. part of whom took trading Goods up Nelson River. Thirteen Englishmen returned with furrs from Nelson River"

Aug. 26
" Monday Wind & Weather the same. Part of the men preparing for Inland, part packing furrs & the rest engaged unloading the Craft and stowing away the Cargo"

Aug. 27
" Tuesday Much rain last night with strong gales variable at times hail, part clear and part cloudy. Mens employ as yesterday"

Aug. 28
" Wednesday Breezes ? variable all round the Compafs part clear part cloudy. Loaded the Brig with part of the Homeward bound Cargo and she dropt down to the Ship. All hands nearly as before. Several Indians came in part of whom traded and went away"

Aug. 29
" Thursday Fresh breezes NE raw cold frosty airs PM fresh Gales & showers of Rain. Fixed Canoes and served out provisions. Several Indians arrived with a few furrs which they traded"

Aug. 30
" Friday Strong gale Nly with heavy rain
All hands busily employed on Inland businefs"

Aug. 31
" Saturday Fresh breezes variable with flying showers and cloudy. Indians of Thursday went away. Loaded the Brig with the remainder of the Homeward bound Cargo. Discharged Laughton Taylor Steersman from your Honours Service. by order of Council. Every thing was fitted out for his leaving the factory with? others early tomorrow morning. - He came up into my Room this afternoon when Captain Hanwell was setting & with bitter imprecation declared that he would not leave the factory unlefs every Officer who went Inland were ordered to do the same duty as himself. A Council was immediately called when he still persevered in his declarations Being sensible it was a preconcerted plan & has he had in several Instances behaved disorderly, as particularly mentioned in this Journal 8th July & finding we could not bring him to a sense of his duty. it was Judged advisable to send him to England as an example to others & he was sent on board the Ship immediately"

Sept. 1 1793
" Sunday Moderate variable breezes clear & fine
This morning early Mefs Thompson, Vandriel, Oman & Tate set off in five Canoes accompanied by seventeen men to Cumberland House - And in the afternoon Mr Rofs accompanied by three men in one Canoe - for the particulars of his destination I refer our Honours to my instructions entered in Country Correpondence - Henry Hallet is sent Inland to afsist as Writer at one of the Houses, I am sorry to remark that Masters at three of the Houses Inland at this time are incapable to sign their own name"

Sept. 2
" Monday Variable breezes part clear part cloudy
Discharged from your Honours Service James Banks, Alex Corrigal, Alex Thompson, David Copeland, Willm Groundwater, James Flett Jun. & Halcro Smith, from Inland - John Brafs, John Inkster, Robert Tate, James Smith, Robert Meal, James Thompson and Magnus Halcro. Also John Jones, Armourer from Severn - James Sinclair a young lad who came out this year having received an accidental fall down the Hatchway on board the Ship which occaisoned a rupture that obliges his return - All the remaining hands busily employed collecting stones which are so scarse at this place. the Pateroon declares there will not be sufficient found to ballast the Ship two years not in the distance of some miles from the factory"

Sept. 3
" Tuesday Cloudy weather with strong gales variable at times heavy Rain. Early this morning sent ten men to raft home wood for the Ship - Rest variously employed"

Sept. 4
" Wednesday Wind & Weather the same. Brig Beaver came along side the Launch & took in part of the Severn Cargo - In the evening the men of yesterday returned with one raft of Wood for the Ship."

Sept. 5
" Thursday Clear weather with Moderate Breezes variable
All hands busily employed preparing for the dispatch of the Ship. Loading Beaver Brig and getting Canoes in readinefs to leave the factory - Indians went away "

Sept. 6
" Friday Sly Breezes pleasant Weather
Early this Morning Mr Cook accompanied by Nine men set off up Nelson River he has instructions to afsist men sent from Churchill Inland - About 3 PM Capt Hanwell & Turner took leave and went down to Ship - In the Evening closed the Packet and delivered it to Mr Geo. Sutherland who takes it on board early tomorrow morning. Pray God send the Prince of Wales and Queen Charlotte a safe and Speedy pafsage to England Amen.

Jos. Colen"


B.239/a/95

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