"Diary of Occurences at York Fort Hudson's Bay, North America by Joseph Colen Chief Factor.
Commencing September 8th 1796
Ending September 13th 1797"


Sept. 8 1796
" Thursday This morning closed the packet for England and delivered the same to Captain John Richards - Soon after two Canoes of Natives arrived with a few furs, which so soon as Traded were packed and sent on board Ship. - About 3 PM Capt. Richards took leave, accompanied by Mefs Tomison, Ballanden and Tate. Saluted them at parting with nine Guns and three Cheers. - Several Canoes of Indians set off to their Winters Stations - Sent others acrofs the River to hunt for Game."

Sept. 9
" Friday A Native (Robert Inkster) formerly a servant on this Establishment died suddenly this morning coming into the Fort. - Sent seven Men to the Woods. - Carpenters fitting up an Appartment for Mr Jarvis. - Rest variously Employed."

Sept. 10
" Saturday Men nearly as before."

Sept. 11
" Sunday Sent Men and Boat to the Ship with a few Vegetables - Two Canoes of Natives went away. - Indians came from the Eastward with a few Geese - part of them are what are termed Severn Home Guards. - Sent them away immediately to prevent reflections hereafter. - They appeared very much disatisfied at my not permitting them to drink with their friends on the plantation."

Sept. 12
" Monday Had Goods packed and got things ready to send off Boats to Gordon House. - Began Working Still. Carpenter, Bricklayer and Smith preparing and fitting up Appartment for Mr Jarvis as are the Taylors making Cloaths for him & Servant."

Sept. 13
" Tuesday This Morning Tide the Ships King George & Queen Charlotte got under way and Sailed. pray God send them a safe and speedy pafsage to England Amen. Men as before."

Sept. 14
" Wednesday Part of the Sloops Crew came up, have left the Vefsel in her old Winters Station below the old Battery House. Captain Turnor on hearing of our being short in the Article of Gun Powder very obligingly sent up three Barrels. Employment of Men as before."

Sept. 15
" Thursday Early this morning sent Sixteen Men in two Batteaux Loaded with Trading Goods and provisions to Gordon House - Had the Long Boat laid up for the Winter, near the Sloop. - Men nearly as before."

Sept. 16
" Friday Sent three Men to the fourteens to serve out Ammunition to Natives who are hunting to the Eastward. Rest as before."

Sept. 17
" Saturday Mefs Cook and Howse accompanied by two Indian Youths set off to Tent and Hunt up Nelson River. - Seven Men afsisting them in Boat around the point of Marsh. - Rest as before. - Two Bungee Natives arrived with a few Skins which they Traded and went away. Mens Employ nearly as before."

Sept. 18
" Sunday Several Natives came in with Geese part of these are from Severn. - I sent them away as I did those of the 11th Instant without giving them Brandy, - and this I did to prevent the busy tongue of Slander from saying I gave encouragement to draw them from another Settlement. they appeared to take the hint as I meant it - and left York very much disatisfied."

Sept. 19
" Monday All the Tradesmen engaged for Mr Jarvis and Servant. - Rest variously employed."

Sept. 20
" Tuesday Nearly the same, except when tide served had part of the Boat taken up Bank for the Winter.
An Indian arrived with the Melancholly intelligence of his Canoe Mate being Murdered by the Bungees who left this place the 11th Instant."

Sept. 21
" Wednesday Men variously Employed."

Sept. 22
" Thursday The Men sent with Mefs Cook & Howse & party last Saturday returned, having conveyed him? ? the first fall up Nelson River, where Mr Cook is in hopes of killing a few Deer. - Sent Men in Boat acrofs the River, who returned with Indians - and a little venison. - Rest as before."

Sept. 23
" Friday Tradesmen as before. all the rest afsisting the removing of Logs to Sawpit. - Men came from the fourteens with Geese. Mr Jarvis removed into his new appartment, with which he appears much pleased, having in it every convenience he wished."

Sept. 24
" Saturday Had Cabins Cleaned & fumigated in Mens House."

Sept. 25
" Sunday Performed Service for this day."

Sept. 26
" Monday Taylors at Work for Mr Jarvis & Servant. All the rest afsisting raking down Launch. - Late in the Evening two Natives came from the Eastward with Geese"

Sept. 27
" Tuesday All hands afsisting Mr Jarvis, Overhauling Provisions &c. Indians of last night went away."

Sept. 28
" Wednesday Began taking down dwelling House at Old York. which I intend to fix up at this place to accomodate the Officers and Men from Inland. - Three Men getting things ready to leave the factory tomorrow."

Sept. 29
" Thursday Sent William Smith and two Men to Tent and Hunt at Pennycutway 'till Xmas. - Rest as before. One Englishman an Indian youth came from the Eastward with a few Geese."

Sept. 30
" Friday The Eastward Hunters returned. Mens Employ as before. In the Evening four Bungees arrived with a few furs."

Oct. 1 1796
" Saturday The Bungee Natives of last night Traded were trusted Debt and set off to their Winters Stations.
About Noon Willm Manson and party - who set off to Gordon House the 15th Ult. returned with five Rafts of Timber from Hill River.
The Stock of Goods in Store at Gordon House amounts to nearly 10,000 MB - My motive for having such a large stock of Trading Articles there is, - I wish to put a stop to so many of the Company's Servants coming to the factory - who only consume provisions, encreases? expenses, and answers no purpose whatever. - On the contrary, nearly a Month of the best Season of the year is entirely lost in Indolence, which can now by the mode which will be adopted the ensuing Year with Boats - be usefully Employed conveying Goods Inland - And I have still the greater hopes of succeeding as Mr Tomison will not be present to counteract our plans. - as he always set his face totally against every mode of carrying on businefs that lefsens the consequence of the Men. - Steersmen particularly."

Oct. 2
" Sunday Took Men and Boat accompanied by Mr Jarvis and went to Ten Shilling Creek."

Oct. 3
" Monday Early part of day all hands employed getting Timber up Bank Afterwards Taylors Armourer & Cooper at their respective occupations. - Rest afsisting taking down Building at Old York."

Oct.4
" Tuesday Men Employed securing Boats which were drove from their Moorings - Timber &c."

Oct. 5
" Wednesday Had remaining Timbers carryed up Bank - Tools collected and Vegetables taken up - as there's? every appearance of Winter setting in early."

Oct. 6
" Thursday Sent Eight Men to the Woods with provisions for the supply of those who are to be employed there during Winter. Shipwright accompanied them to cut down Boats Timbers. Rest employed taking down Dwelling House at Old York."

Oct. 7
" Friday Had part of building brought from old York in Rafts. The Hunters came from the fourteens River. The men sent up the River yesterday returned with Boats Timbers and about 200 lbs of Methy Fish which they reced from Penny cutway River Hunters. - Four Men accompanied Mr Jarvis to Ten Shilling Creek."

Oct. 8
" Saturday Men Employed nearly as before. All the Natives Employed to Kill Geese to the Eastward came to the factory."

Oct. 9
" Sunday Engaged with Natives in Trading Room the whole day."

Oct. 10
" Monday Had remainder of Vegetables taken up and stowed away for Winters Use - they are remarkably fine and I Judge with Oconomy there is suff't to serve all hands until Spring. - One Man afsisting in Distilling - two laying up Canoes. - All the rest employed removing building from old York."

Oct. 11
" Tuesday Trusted small Debts to Natives. - Twenty two Men preparing to leave the factory for the Winter. - Rest variously Employed."

Oct. 12
" Wednesday Sent twelve Men to the Islands up the River to cut down fire Wood &c. four accompanied them to bring home Boats. Rest variously Employed.
Six Canoes of Natives went away. as our stock of English provisions is not sufficient to keep the present Complement of Men, engaged the whole of the Natives who set off to day to hunt for the factory and Trap small furrs."

Oct. 13
" Thursday Sent three Men to Tent and Hunt at Ten Shilling Creek. Rest nearly as yesterday."

Oct. 14
" Friday Sent three Men to Tent hunt and fish at French & Crofs Creeks - Had Boats taken up Bank. - Two Men came from Ten Shilling Creek - and two Natives brought in the flesh of two Beaver."

Oct. 15
" Saturday Sent Six Men to fix the Sloop in her old Winters Station from which she has been removed by the late high Tide - One of the Men from Ten Shilling Creek returned to his Tent the other is obliged to remain at the factory under the Surgeons care having received a severe Wound in his face ? by an Arrow shot by young Smith the Co's apprentice - thro ?mere? wantonefs - this youth is incorrigable. The Indians of last night went away."

Oct. 16
" Sunday Severe Cold much Ice driving in the River."

Oct. 17
" Monday Men sent on saturday to remove Sloop returned having fixed her in her old Winters birth. - Smith, Coopers, Carpenters and Taylors at their respective occupations. - Rest variously Employed - Began fixing up Dwelling House brought from old York - It is the same building that was sent from England in the year 1783 - Altho not quite so perfect as when first sent out - I hope to make it a comfortable dwelling for the Officers and Men when they arrive from Inland - who for want of a room have been obliged hitherto to Sleep in Tents - Ware Houses &c. This I expect will in future be entirely done away."

Oct. 18
" Tuesday Employment of Men nearly as before. - The Indian who accompanied the Ten Shilling Creek hunter on Saturday came home with two Beaver."

Oct. 19
" Wednesday One Englishman and two Natives arrived from Penny cutway with fish. - The Indians who left the factory the 12th Instant unable to reach their intended Hunting Ground - They were prevented from proceeding in their Canoes by Ice driving in the River. - part are Tenting at twenty Mile Creek - and part at the head of Ten Shilling Creek above Penny cutway River."

Oct. 20
" Thursday Mens Employ the same - Hunters returned to their Tent."

Oct. 21
" Friday the same."

Oct. 22
" Saturday Had Mens Cabins Cleaned & fumigated."

Oct. 23
" Sunday Service for the day performed."

Oct. 24
" Monday Had Cargo removed from Launch House into the fort - and piles drove for Building in the S.W. quarter - Men not employed in the above duties nearly as last Monday."

Oct. 25
" Tuesday the same."

Oct. 26
" Wednesday the same."

Oct. 27
" Thursday the same."

Oct. 28
" Friday the same.
Finding our expenditure of Tea? and Sugar exceed any former year, and fearful that none would remain for the Officers Inland, was the present expenditure supposed to continue. - Began packing Sugar for the Inland Settlements."

Oct. 29
" Saturday Indian Hunters brought in Six porcupines and a few partridges, they complain of the great Scarcity of Game. Men as before."

Oct. 30
" Sunday Service for the day performed."

Oct. 31
" Monday Had Keel laid for New Batteaux, Tradesmen at their respective occupations. rest variously Employed. Three Native Hunters came in with the flesh of two Deer and two Beaver and returned to their Tents the 1 November"

Nov. 1 1796
" Mens Employ nearly the same."

Nov. 2
" Wednesday Mens Employ nearly the same."

Nov. 3
" Thursday Mens Employ nearly the same."

Nov. 4
" Friday Mens Employ nearly the same."

Nov. 5
" Saturday Mens Employ nearly the same."

Nov. 6
" Sunday - Sent two Natives for Venison killed by hunters up the River."

Nov. 7
" Monday Mens Employ nearly as last Week."

Nov. 8
" Tuesday The same. The Natives of Sunday returned."

Nov. 9
" Wednesday All hands variously employed within Doors, until the Weather permitted them to work out."

Nov. 10
" Thursday River Ice set fast - abreast the fort. - Three Men clearing Snow from out the Inner yard - Tradesmen at their respective occupations, rest vartiously engaged."

Nov. 11
" Friday - The same - Sent Natives to cut Snow Shoe frames "

Nov. 12
" Saturday One of the Hunters came from Ten Shilling Creek Tent. complain of the great scarcity of game having killed only thirty Partridges since they left the factory the 13th of last Month."

Nov. 13
" Sunday The Hunter of yesterday returned to his Tent and one Man came from French Creek - repeats the same story of those of yesterday of the great scarcity of Game.
Native Hunters came in With the flesh of two Deer. very fortunately for us, that the Ice began driving on this River early in the fall - it prevented the few? Deer on this Island from crofsing the River - We have had more venison brought in since the departure of the Ship than has been known (at this Season) for the last twelve years - Yet notwithstanding the apparent large quantity, it does not amount to four days full allowance for all the people - as it takes nearly 200 lbs each day to supply the present number of Men - The same weight of fish is also required for one day's allowance - and of Partridges an equal number. - Having no Oatmeal or Scotch Barley to serve out with the fresh Provisions as formerly the Men cannot make themselves Broth - they complain that even the allowance before mentioned is too small, and not sufficient for their support which occaisions much gloomy discontent - Should the scarcity of Country Game continue God only knows what we shall do.
- The want of Oatmeal is also severely felt by the poor Invalid Natives to whom I am obliged to give flour to keep them from Starving - this will soon reduce our small stock of this article, and we shall I much fear be down to short allowance much earlier than I expected."

Nov. 14
" Monday Had Watering and Victualling hole cut in the River Ice and Salt provisions put in the latter to freshen - Had all the provisions in Ware House over hauled and a calculation made - find we have not suff't to serve the present Compliment of Men till next March after deducting a small allowance for Indian Servants. - This will oblige us to begin on short allowance next Saturday - This alarmed Mr Jarvis very much - who declared that our situation is more alarming than ever Albany was at the worst of times.
Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Labourers variously Employed - The Hunter of yesterday returned to his Tent."

Nov. 15
" Tuesday Mens Employ nearly the same - two came from the woods for provisions as did two from penny cutway with a few Methy fish."

Nov. 16
" Wednesday The Hunters and one of the Wooders of yesterday returned to their respective Tents - The other stays at the factory to Kill Hogs. - Men as before."

Nov. 17
" Thursday Mens Employ as before."

Nov. 18
" Friday Four Natives came in to beg provisions for their families who they say are in great want, they also request Deer Skins for snow Shoes. - Deer they say have been so scarce in the quarter where they have been, as not to have seen one since they left the factory last August. Mens Employ nearly the same."

Nov. 19
" Saturday Had Mens Cabbins cleaned and fumigated - One Man came from each of the Hunting Tents near the House with a few fish. - as did those from the Woods for provisions - Hogs Killed this fall 1256 lbs which is nearly 10 Days provisions for all the people - Having Distilled upwards of 1600 Galls of High Spirits 300 Galls of Red & White Cordials besides 200 Galls of Geneva? sufficient for next years consumption. had Liquor Back, and Worm Tub discharged - and all the utenfils in distilling thoroughly cleaned for the Season."

Nov. 20
" Sunday Natives of the 18th went away. The Wooders & Hunters returned to their respective Tents."

Nov. 21
" Monday Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Labourers wheeling Snow from the works to the Banks Edge. - One Man came from pennycutway with a few fish &c. several Natives came to beg provisions for their families.
Packed up remainder of Grocery for the use of the Officers Inland - Equally divided the Tea &c among the whole in this Establishment - each share is 2 lbs. I delivered the Officers at York their proportion & removed no more for myself. - Mr Jarvis declares the whole sent out to this place is not equal to what he expended himself in one Season while at Albany."

Nov. 22
" Tuesday Carpenter finished Work for Mr Jarvis, who has at this time as Comfortable & neat appartment as any within this Countrys Limits. - Hunter returned to his Tent as did the Natives to theirs. - Late in the Evening two Indians came to beg provisions. - Wretchednefs was vifsible in their features - They tell me it is six days since themselves or families has eaten any kind of food. being destitute of Ammunition they could not procure provisions."

Nov. 23
" Wednesday Carpenters at Work on Inland Serv'ts Dwelling House - Rest nearly as yesterday. Natives went away."

Nov. 24
" Thursday Mens Employ nearly the same."

Nov. 25
" Friday Mens Employ nearly the same."

Nov. 26
" Saturday Mens Employ nearly the same.
One man came from French as did one from Ten Shilling Creeks with a few fish - and four from the Woods for Provisions."

Nov. 27
" Sunday Wooders & Hunters returned to their repsective Tents."

Nov. 28
" Monday Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Labourers variously Employed packing Goods for Inland &c &c.
The great scarcity of Country Game and the low state of our Ware Houses so much alarms Mr Jarvis he tells me it deprives him of rest. the Dread of experiencing want so much haunts his mind & distrefses him - he says even? appearances are against us - that the worst consequences might be expected and is certain that want will be our fate very soon. - He tells me further that he has had some conversation with the Churchill Indians who inform him that there is plenty of Venison and Partridges at that Settlement always in Winter - therefore he was determined to go there if I would but engage Indians to haul him on a Sled (to Churchill) - and worked to set off as soon as pofsible. He also declares the worst of times he ever experienced at albany exceeds the best living he has seen at York - since his arrival.
In the Evening Mefs Cook and Howse came from their Tent. - They were three days on their Journey to the factory. Blefs God they have been fortunate in killing a few Deer."

Nov. 29
" Tuesday One Man came from Pennycutway with a few fish. Mens Employ as before."

Nov. 30
" Wednesday The Hunter of yesterday went to his Tent. - Sent for all the Native Hunters to come to the factory - in order that Mr Jarvis may make choice of those he likes best to accompany him - he is very impatient to begin his Journey - and has all his things packed in readinefs but by the quantity of Baggage he has prepared to take with him it does not appear that he has been much accustomed to travel in this Country at this Season of the year - Which would require a middling Carriage to convey them, instead of small Sleds.
All hands variously engaged."

Dec. 1 1796
" Thursday Sent for the Hunters from Tent Shilling who are ordered to bring home their Tent and bedding - one of whom Thomas Clouston? formerly Mr Jarvis's Servant is to accompany him to Churchill. - Men as before."

Dec. 2
" Saturday Men nearly the same. - One Man came from French Creek Hunting Tent and four from the Woods.
All the Native Hunters from the House came to the factory - Engaged three to accompany Mr Jarvis to Churchill, and two to convey Goods to Gordon House. In the Evening three Natives arrived tolerably well Loaded with furs."

Dec. 4
" Sunday Mefs Cook and Howse returned to their Tent accompanied by two Englishmen an Indian & Dogs with Sleds to afsist hauling home Venison. - The Wooders anf Hunters returned to their respective Tents as did part of the Natives to theirs. - The Indians of last night paid Debt and Traded."

Dec. 5
" Monday Tradesmen at their respective occupations. - Labourers variously Employed - Had Sleds Loaded and got every thing ready for Mr Jarvis to set off tomorrow. The Natives of Sunday finished Trade and were Trusted small Debts &c."

Dec. 6
" Early this Morning Mr Jarvis and Servant, accompanied by three Englishmen, - three Natives, and two Dogs set off for Churchill. - The small stock of Provisions in our Ware House, the scarcity of Country Game, together with other unfavorable appearances of our being driven to want, induced Mr Jarvis to undertake the Journey at this inclement Season, which must be very fatiguing? to him While labouring under such complicated infirmities that attended him during his stay at York where he had every attention shewn him not only by myself but all the Officers (Mr Wright Surgeon excepted) all contributed as much as in our power to his happinefs and Comfort - but unfortunately, the same unsettled state of mind accompanied all his actions while here, as it did his pursuits in England. - Never happy with what he pofsefsed - always on the wish for that he could not attain - which makes his own life mifserable and every one around him uncomfortable.
Two of the Men who accompanied Mr Jarvis this Morning are sent to attend Dogs and haul provisions acrofs Nelson River from which place they are to return.
Apprehensive of incuring the displeasure of the Honble Co. I wrote no Letters by the conveyance this day to Churchill - As Mr Stayner sent word by the Gentlemen who came from him last September pr the Queen Charlotte - that he had positive orders not to correspond with me on any account what ever - He wrote several Letters to others at this place by the same ship. This and this only stopped me from sending a public Letter - what can occasion these positive orders I know not?[his question mark]
Some few days before Mr Jarvis left this place he wished to make a overhaul of Trading Goods. before he went to Churchill. but the Severity of the weather prevented him from the undertaking. - It was therefore delayed until his arrival next Summer when the Co. will be acquainted the real state of the Ware Houses - and in order that no time might be lost he left York Fort Book - that entries of all the Goods and Stores might be made, in readinefs wherein he would only have the amounts or Numbers to insert in looking over & examining stock on remains.
The Natives of Saturday went away. Sent presents by them to some of my home Guards. - Had Sleds Loaded for Indians to set off to Gordon House tomorrow.
Men variously Employed."

Dec. 7
" Wednesday Too bad Weather for Indians to leave the factory. One of the Hunters came from his Tent. - All hands variously Employed in House."

Dec. 8
" Thursday Too bad Weather to leave the factory. Men as before."

Dec. 9
" Friday Sent off two Natives with Letter to Mr Whitford and Sleds Loaded with Trading Goods to Gordon House. The Hunter of Wednesday returned to his Tent and Mens Employ as on Tuesday."

Dec. 10
" Had Mens Cabins cleaned and fumigated - Four Men came from the Woods - and one from French Creek. One of the Men sent acrofs Nelson River the 6th Inst. returned. Mr Jarvis detained the other to afsist hauling his Servants Sled - the taking this Man who is our principal Sawyer will be a great hinderance to our building - as the Carpenters are now at a stand for want of Boards."

Dec. 11
" Sunday Too bad Weather for men to leave the factory."

Dec. 12
" Monday The Hunter and Wooders of Saturday returned to their respective Tents - Sent Shipwright and afsistant to the Woods to cut Boats Timbers. - Tradesmen at their respective occupations. - Rest packing Goods and provisions for Inland. - In the Evening an Indian came in to beg provisions for his family whom he says are starving - Game is so scarce"

Dec. 13
" Tuesday Two Men came from the Woods hauled home Thomas Bews who is severely Wounded by a hatchet of his Companion in falling of Timber - One came from Pennycutway Tent - Rest as before."

Dec. 14
" Wednesday The same. Wooders and Hunters returned to their respective Tents. - Three Natives brought in a few fish and a small Deer."

Dec. 15
" Thursday Natives of last night went away. Men as before."

Dec. 16
" Very severe Weather Men's Employ nearly the same."

Dec. 17
" Saturday Remarkably Severe. - The Thermometer being at 52 below the Cypher - 7 Degrees Colder than the Severest day last Winter.
Had Mens Cabins cleaned and fumigated. - All the Men came from the Woods with their Tent and bedding for the Christmas hollidays - One Man came from French Creek and one from Pennycutway Hunting Tents.
Having had seventy Bags filled with flour of 45 lbs each, being all that can be spared from our small stock for the Inland Servants. Had these stowed away in the distllery in order to send off by the first Boats - This is done with a view that no stoppage may be put to the Inland pursuits next Summer. for it cannot be expected that Men can perform Laborious duties without provisions to eat. - Yet let me do all I can, it is out of my power to supply them as formerly - As York Ware Houses does not contain one half of the Oatmeal (as to quantity) usually allowed them. and very little Scotch Barley is on remains. - Neither of which Articles have been served to factory Men since the departure of the Ship. We have been also very sparing in the use of all kinds of English provisons. - to reserve a supply for Summer to take down to Gordon House for the support of the Company Servants on their Arrival from Inland - Boats Men &c. The scarcity of Country Game compells me to reduce our Allowance from one to two days pr Week occaisionally. - and as the Officers and myself fare as they do, has kept them hitherto from murmuring.
- The reduced state of our Provisions puts it totally out of my power to supply Trading Natives as formerly when they visit York. - I much fear its Trade will be injured in future. - tho' I think there is no fear but many Indians will visit me the ensuing Summer, from whom I expect many Skins. I am inclined to think this from the encouragement given them last Summer. - All circumstances considered, it cannot be expected that Indians will be over desirous of bringing their furs several Hundred miles from the Interior Country, to Trade at this place when they are certain of experiencing those hardships the want of food must occaision, and very probably fall victims to want before they reach their families. - Indeed Natives who have been in habit of hunting near the factory, have told me in plain terms that these risks would be avoided in future by disposing of their Skins near their Hunting Ground. - And there is not a doubt but our enterprizing Oponents will take advantage of our distrefsed situation by representing things in the most unfavorable to the Natives against us - and turn it to their own benefit in the way of Trade.
Late in the Evening the Men sent to Mr Cook's Tent the 4th Instant returned with a tolerable supply of Venison. - The Men are very much mutilated in their faces by the severity of the Weather - The Indian who accompanied them is so much frozen as rendered him uncapable of walking - and was obliged to stay at the Tent."

Dec. 18
" Sunday The early part of the day more severe than it has been for many years. - The Thermometer in open Air remaining stationary for several hours at 53 below the Cypher - it rose very rapidly during the day and in the Evening it was at 19 below the Cypher. The Hunter of yesterday went to his Tent."

Dec. 19
" Monday Sixteen with Large Sled hauling up Lead and other Articles from old York. - Rest variously Employed."

Dec. 20
" Tuesday The same."

Dec. 21
" Wednesday The same."

Dec. 22
" Thursday Nearly the same except Labourers who are employed cutting fire Wood for the Christmas hollidays."

Dec. 23
" Friday Nearly the same except Labourers who are employed cutting fire Wood for the Christmas hollidays.
Four Natives came in to beg provisions. one of them was so much exhausted that he could not haul his Sled to the factory, indeed, he was obliged to be afsisted up the Bank - As there were small furrs on the Sled, sent two Men to haul it to the factory to prevent their being destroyed by Animals. The Men returned during night."

Dec. 24
" Saturday Mens Employ nearly the same. - All the English Hunters came to the factory with their Tent and bedding for the Christmas hollidays - except Mefs Cook and Howse - Indians of last night went away except one who remains with the Invalids"

Dec. 25
" Sunday Performed Service for the day - Two Indians came to beg provisions & went away the ?"

Dec. 26
" Monday Men at their holliday diversions. - Mr Howse came home with his bedding."

Dec. 27
" Tuesday Sent two Men to French Creek for things left by Hunters."

Dec. 28
" Wednesday Mr Cook came to the factory having removed his Tent to the back of this Island. - The Indians sent to Gordon House the 9th Instant returned with Letters from Mr Whitford."

Dec. 29
" Thursday Had Beacons set acrofs the River."

Dec. 30
" Friday Mr Cook returned to his Tent."

Dec. 31
" Saturday Men finished their holliday diversions."

Jan. 1 1797
" Sunday Performed Service for the day."

Jan. 2
" Monday Twenty two Men preparing to leave the factory - Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Rest variously Employed getting things ready for Inland &c.
Two Natives came to the factory in a wretched state to beg provisions for themselves and families. This Season the distrefses of the Indians have been indeed great, occaisoned by the scarsity of Game - It is out of my power to supply them with provisions or ammunition as formerly - and I much fear many helplefs Natives will fall victims to want before the Rivers are open unlefs kind providence send us supplies - Mifserable indeed are the condition of many and the scarsity around makes the prospect dreadfully gloomy."

Jan. 3
" Tuesday Sent four Men to Tent and Hunt acrofs Nelson River. Four to Tent and hunt to the Eastward, and fourteen to the Woods with Large Sled. - Rest as before.
Three Indians came in to beg provisions - and those of last night went away. - Engaged them to hunt for the factory."

Jan. 4
" Wednesday Mens Employ the same."

Jan. 5
" Thursday We? fitted out Natives of Tuesday and they set off. All the Invalids removed their Tent to the Woods upwards - received? their allowance of provisions and served them a little powder & shot to procure a little Game for themselves - Men the same."

Jan. 6
" Friday Mens Employ the same."

Jan. 7
" Saturday The same."

Jan. 8
[no entry]

Jan. 9
" Monday Hunters & Wooders as before. - Taylors at Work for Trade. Rest Employed on Inland Duties."

Jan. 10
" Tuesday Nearly the same"

Jan. 11
" Wednesday Nearly the same"

Jan. 12
" Thursday Nearly the same
One Man came from the Eastward with only 60 Partridges, being the produce of four Mens Labour since Xmas. - Three Natives came in with a few furrs? &c"

Jan. 13
" Friday Men the same. - The Hunters returned to their respective Tents - and Two came from Nelson River with a few Partridges.
- About noon the Englishmen and Natives who accompanied Mr Jarvis to Churchill the 6th Ult. returned. inform me they were twenty two days on their Journey going there and nine on their return. Natives went to the Invalid Tent.
Mens Employ nearly the same - The Hunters of yesterday returned to their Tent and four came from the Woods for Provisions.
Two of the Natives who returned from Churchill yesterday came to the Factory requested Oatmeal etc. etc. were very Clamerous on being informed we had none - They said it was rather extraordinary as there was such plenty at Churchill - that the very Dogs were fed with it, and the Hogs with better Victuals than I either gave to the Indians or my own people. Their Language was very aggravating - but being disguised in Liquor I judged what they said was done with the view to get what they could from me as they made use of many threats about their leaving York - I sent them away as they came and told them to come when sober and I should pay them for their Journey when they would be at free liberty to visit whom they pleased.
Two Natives came late in the Evening to beg provisions - and went away with the Wooders."

Jan. 15
" Sunday The Natives who accompanied Mr. Jarvis to Churchill came to receive payment for their Journey as per agreement paid them 50 Beaver each, being sober they talked rational, which was not the case with them yesterday - They asked me the reason why I had no Oatmeal - Figs, pruens or Raisins to give Indians the same as they had at Churchill where there was such stock of the former that Dogs were fed with it - and the Hogs with better Victuals than I eat myself - I informed them the reason supplies were not sent us last year as formerly was occaisioned by a mistake in the writings home - but that it was impofsible to have either Figs or pruens sent us as the Trees which produced them had failed some years - That is rather extraordinary they exclaimed - and to convince me to the contrary produced three partridge Bags which they brought with them nearly full from Churchill as presents to other Indians at this place - As it is some years since any Pruens have been sent to York - I could not believe this circumstance had not the Natives produced them - the figs that were sent us four Years ago were the Common Small ones and on their being landed at York were entirely Rotten - these which the Indians produced are all the Large Turky figs and of prime quality - I mention this circumstance with no other view than that the Honble Commitee may be acquainted the distinction and partiality shewn to particular Settlements.
These Indians also informed me that Mr Stayner told them that his friends in England would always take care and supply him with all kinds of necefsaries & that no Indian would know want who visited Churchill, which is not the case at York, where Englishmen and Natives has not sufficient to Eat.
I seldom place confidence in the afsertion of Indians, especially when their own Interest is concerned, which is the case in the present instance, - neither can I suppose that any person would be so devoid of humanity as to ridicule our distrefs, or be so ungenerous as to take advantage of our situation to turn it to their own benefit.
The Indians inform me partridges were plentiful between this place and Churchill - I engaged them to Hunt there - and to prevent their taking advantage of our present situation, and to convince them my dependance did not rest entirely on them - I informed them they might either carry the produce of their hunt either to Mr Stayner or bring it to York as was most convenient to them, - and to shew my indifference to the threats they used. - I stopped from their payment the whole of their Debts in York Books - They returned to Invalid Tent."

Written in the margin:

" The natives having repeated this so often to me I sent one of my officers to inquire of Tho. Moore & Thomas Clouston the two Men who accompanied Mr. Jarvis to Churchill whither there was any truth in the Indians afsertions - They confirmed the Acc't by saying the Dogs were fed on Oatmeal and the Hogs on Pease fish and Venison - They further said that the victuals given to animals there would be considered a treat to the men at this place."

Jan. 16
" Monday Carpenters fitting up partitions in House for Inland Servants - Smith making Hatchets. Two making Sinnet, fine? and Spun yarn, two packing provisions two building Boats two Making Rundlets - and two at the pit saw - All the above providing for Inland. Taylors at work for Trade. - Twenty four at Hunting and Wooding Tents - rest variously engaged."

Jan. 17
" Tuesday Mens Employ as before."

Jan. 18
" Wednesday the same. - Two Indian Lads came from Mr Cooks Tent with a few furs."

Jan. 19
" Thursday the same."

Jan. 20
" Friday the same. Sent off the Lads to Mr Cook with a few necefsaries. Two Men came from the Eastward Tents and two from Nelson River - they have not brought so much Game as they take English provisions for their support from the factory."

Jan. 21
" Saturday The Hunters of yesterday returned to their respective Tents. Four Men came from the Woods for provisions - Five Natives brought in a few partridges - Rest of Men as before."

Jan. 22
" Sunday Thw Wooders and Natives returned to their respective Tents."

Jan. 23
" Monday Mens Employ nearly as last Week."

Jan. 24
" Tuesday the same - Sent a party of Natives to Tent and hunt to the Eastward."

Jan. 25
" Wednesday Mens Employ the same."

Jan. 26
" Thursday too bad Weather to work out men variously Employed."

Jan. 27
" Friday Men employed as the early part of the week. Sent off four Natives and their families to Tent and hunt between this place and Churchill - Two Men came from Nelson Tent and two from the Eastward."

Jan. 28
" Saturday The Hunters of yesterday returned to their respective Tents, and Six came from the Woods for provisions, Mens Employ nearly as yesterday."

Jan. 29
" Sunday Wooders returned to their Tent. took with them part of the Sawyers Tools &c."

Jan. 30
" Monday Sent four Men to the Woods to saw plank &c. Mens Employ the same as last week."

Jan. 31
" Tuesday Men the same."

Feb. 1 1797
" Wednesday The same. Mr Cook came to the factory and three Hunters came from the Eastward Tents and returnd? the ?"

Feb. 2
" Thursday Men as before."

Feb. 3
" Friday Mens Employ the same. - Native and English Hunters came from the Northward Tents - God be praised they have brought in more birds than I have seen together this Season.
Had an exact overhaul of provisions find ourselves considerable short in the Article of flour than the Stewards account specify."

Feb. 4
" Saturday Mens Employ nearly the same - The Hunters of yesterday returned to their Tents - and six Men came from the Woods for provisions.
Having made an exact calculation of the flour on remains, which by our present weekly consumption would be all expended by the beginning of July - Mustered all the Men and informed them the true state of provisions in Ware House, and the necefsity there was for my reducing the allowance of flour - so as to make it hold out 'till the arrival of the Ship next August. - That it was better to begin this? early? than to want it for two Months, which would be the case were they continued to be served full allowance.
In consequence began this day to serve out only 5 lbs pr Week of flour each man, allowing nothing for pudding (flour) as formerly - and I confine myself and Officers to the same allowance. - Took the Keys of the provision Ware House into my own pofsefsion - not suffering any to be served? out without myself or Mr James Sutherland are present - We are now on short allowance of all kinds of provisions.
It is necefsary here to notice that we had on the Ships departure last year, Twenty Six Casks of flour lefs in the Ware House, than the Expenditure of either? the three last years, when we had plenty of Oatmeal and other Grains to supply Natives - This Seaon we have had no Oatmeal &c - which obliged me to give flour in lieu. - The small quantity allowed to the poor Natives (a number of helplefs ones are dependant on this Factory) is barely sufficient to support Life.
Mr Jarvis took an exact survey of Provisions during the Ships stay last Season, this added to that consigned to York by the King George we found ourselves short of last years consumption upwards of twenty one Tons, yet have ten more men to provide for out of our small stock - This much? convinces any - and every one - that we are hard pushed for food especially as all kind of Country Game has failed. - We have no resources? but what precarious chance? affords, - and having such numbers to provide for, makes our situation more distrefsing as we are obliged to be sparing of Gunpowder - A reserve must be made for our fellow Servants Inland as their existance almost depends on this Article."

Feb. 5
" Sunday Wooders went to their Tent."

Feb. 6
" Monday Mens Employ as last Week."

Feb. 7
" Tuesday Hunters came from the Eastward - and returned the [blank]"

Feb. 8
" Wednesday - Mens employ the same - Invalids came for Provisions - Necefsity compells me to reduce their allowance to one quarter of Pint Pease or flour pr day each person, this is poor pittance without any kind of Animal food, by an exact calculation made, more cannot be afforded them. It's distrefsing to the feeling Mind to hear the Crys of Children for food - upon the whole this is one of the most trying years I ever experienced in this Country. Mr Cook came from his Tent."

Feb. 9
" Thursday Mens Employ nearly the same."

Feb. 10
" Friday the same - Mr Cook returned to his Tent and two came from the Northward and returned the ?"

Feb. 11
" Saturday - Three Natives brought a few Partridges and four Men came from the Woods for provisions. Mens Employ nearly the same."

Feb. 12
" Sunday Natives and Wooders returned to their respective Tents."

Feb. 13
" Monday Carpenters fitting up Dwelling for Inland Servants - Cooper making Rundlets, Smith Awl Blades Steels &c Shipwright building Boats, Three making Sinnet and Spun yarn - One making? nets and two packing provisions. All the above for Inland. Taylors at work for Trade - Twenty Seven at Wooding and Hunting Tents. The rest variously Employed. One Man came from the Eastward Tents."

Feb. 14
" Tuesday Mens Employ nearly the same - Mal. Sinclair who has been some time confined under the Surgeons care accompanied the Hunter this day. - Two Natives brought in a few partridges. wishing to see how the Hunters went on, set off this day to visit Mr Cook and Hunters to the Northward."

Feb. 15
" Wednesday - Natives of yesterday went away - and two came in to beg provisions - Men's Employ nearly the same."

Feb. 16
" Thursday Mens Employ the same. - Indians went away. - and I returned from my visit to the Hunters. - as my visit was unsolicited - they were not over provided for my reception so short was Mr Cook of provisions - he had nothing to eat besides the Carcafs of a fox? - The Hunters have been so prefsed for Victuals this Season, they have eaten of all kinds of Animals killed, whether wolves wolverines Foxes Martins or Musk Rats - having been obliged to find themselves three days pr Week since Christmas - and pay for their Ammunition, which is no easy task these short times, especially as they have no Oatmeal or Scotch Barley served them and being cut short also in their allowance of Flour is a hardship no English Hunters ever experienced before, at any of the Co's Settlements."

[in the margin "Out of this - three families are supplied."]

Feb. 17
" Friday Men the same - Two Men came from the Nelson Tent and returned the[re]?- "

Feb. 18
" Saturday Had Mens Cabins cleaned and fumigated - Five Men came from the Woods for provisions as did three Natives from the Northward with a few partridges"

Feb. 19
" Sunday Wooders and Natives returned to their respective Tents."

Feb. 20 to 26
" Monday Mens Employ as last Week except Carpenters cutting Boards at pit saw. Two Natives came to beg provisions. Englishmen and Natives came from the Eastward Tents & returned the 21st - 23rd Mr Cook came to the factory as did the Nelson Hunters - on the 25th Natives came from the Northward Tents and five men from the Woods for provisions - The day following
26th Sunday, Mr Cook Hunters and Wooders returned to their respective Tents."

Feb. 27 Monday and Feb. 28 Tuesday
"Mens Employ as the 13th - Two Hunters came from the Eastward as did one the day following from Ship River - an Indian came to beg provisions - the Hunters returned the[re]?"

Mar. 1 1797
" Mens Employ the same. - Set off early this day to the Woods to examine Work done - and returned the[n]?"

Mar. 2
" Thursday It is worthy of remark. - That Timber cut down this Winter, upwards of 400 pieces, - were produced from a spot I had cleared Eleven years ago, - I wish to be understood what I mean by being cleared - Seeing a number of promising Young Trees which would have answered at that time for Stockadoes - I had all the underwood cut down from around them and removed several trees which I thought would obstruct the Growth of others. - This I did by way of experiment - whither the mode adopted in England would answer in this rigerous? Climate - Altho I was ridiculed at the time for pursuing a plan different from that followed years before - It was with some difficulty I had my orders executed - however I perservered and find it has answered my most sanguine expectations - It convinces me that a nursery of Timber might always be preserved near the factory with very little trouble and attention - And whatever others may do hereafter - So long as I remain in this Country I intend pursuing the plan I adopted in the fall 1796. especially when I meet with a lot of young Trees that will answer the purpose intended - and I have to lament that the plan had not been pursued annually since? which would afforded a constant supply of timber for the use of the buildings carrying on at this place near home instead of sending Men nearly 100 Miles for that which have been of late used.? Mens Employ as before."

Mar. 3 Friday and 4 Saturday
" Mens Employ the same - Two Men came from the Nelson Tent as did Indians from theirs - five Men came from the Woods & returnd the"

Mar. 5
" Sunday English & Native Hunters came from the Eastward."

Mar. 6 Monday to 10 Friday
" Mens Employ as last Week.
English and Native Hunters came from each of their Tents. - Engaged three to convey Goods to Gordon House - the rest returned to their Tents the"

Mar. 11 Saturday
" Five men came from the Woods - had Cabins cleaned and fumigated in Mens House."

Mar. 12 Sunday
" Wooders returned to their Tent."

Mar. 13 Monday
" Mens Employ nearly as last Week - except three packing Goods for Inland - prepared Letters and closed the packet. - Sent two Indian Youths to the Hunters Tents to supply the room of those leaving the factory tomorrow."

Mar. 14 Tuesday
" This Morning set off three Natives with Dogs and Sleds, loaded with Trading Goods to Gordon House - Magnus Garston accompanied them to errect Store House there. - Those employed packing Goods yesterday making Shot Bags &c Rest nearly as last Week."

Mar. 15
" Wednesday Mens Employ nearly the same. An Indian came to beg provisions."

Mar. 16 Thursday
" Mens Employ nearly the same - Had Bags filled with Shot &c."

Mar. 17 Friday
" Three Wheeling Snow from the Works to Banks edge. Two came from the Eastward and two from Nelson Tents - James Smith very Ill."

Mar. 18 Saturday
" Hunters returned - Two Natives came in - Wooders hauled home sitting poles - Boats Timbers &c on large Sled. - Rest as before."

Mar. 19 Sunday
" Natives and Wooders returned to their respective Tents. Ordered the latter to bring home their Tent and bedding next Week."

Mar. 20 Monday
" Five Tradesmen and four others at Work & preparing for Inland - Hunters and Wooders as last Week. Rest variously Employed."

Mar. 21 Tuesday to 24 Friday
" All the men came from the Woods with Tent and bedding - Men came from each of the English Hunting Tents - and returned the."

Mar. 25 Saturday
" Mr Cook came to the fort as did Indian Hunters. had Mens Cabins and House thoroughly cleaned and fumigated."

Mar. 26 Sunday
" Mr Cook returned to his Tent as did Natives to theirs."

Mar. 27 Monday
" Fourteen Men taking down Stockadoes and buildings at Old York - and hauling stuff from thence on Large Sled, four at the pit saw - Two making frame Work for building - Four at work for Inland. Taylors for Trade. rest variously Employed. An Indian brought home Young Smith from Mr Cooks Tent.
In the Evening Donald Laughton was punished for Theft - He has been frequently detected in pilfering from his fellow Servants - as well as stealing things from out of the Ware Houses - His sentence was to be tyed to the beaver prefs and every one of his fellow servants give him a stroke on the bare back with a hand Whip which was executed on him accordingly. - James Smith Steward past hopes of recovery."

Mar. 28 Tuesday
" Men nearly as before. - In the Evening the Natives sent to Gordon House the 14th Instant returned accompanied by Mag. Garston. the only pit Saw at that Settlement having been broken by the falling of a piece of Timber - Stopped Mr Whitford for? getting sufficient stuff ready to carry on the building and he considered his staying there would answer no purpose whatever especially as his Services were so necefsary at this place."

Mar. 29 Wednesday and 30 Thursday
" Mens Employ the same.
An Indian came in and paid his debt."

Mar. 31 Friday
" Tradesmen as before, Labourers clearing Snow from the Works and wheeling it to the banks edge. Two Men came from each of the Hunting Tents & returned."

Apr. 1 1797 Saturday
" Two families of Indians set off to the Marsh at the back of this Island to collect Wood &c for the Goose Season. - A Native brought in a small Deer - and two came from the Eastward, Engaged two Indians to go to Severn with Packet on Monday - Mens Employ nearly the same."

Apr. 2 Sunday
" Part of the Hunters returned to their Tents and three came from Nelson River - prepared Letters and Closed packet for Severn."

Apr. 3 Monday
" Early this Morning sent off two Indians with a packet to Severn. - Before Mr Thomas left this place pr last Ship time, he promised to send Letters during Winter to York. - No packet arriving alarms me, especially as the accounts brought in by Natives who visited Gordon House during Winter who speak very unfavorable of the treatment some of their friends reced at that Settlement. This induced me to engage Indians to convey Letters there to give Mr Thomas some necefsary Instructions and to prevent the Brig from leaving Severn before the usual Season. - Captain Taylor having received? orders from Mr Jarvis to come here early in June to convey him to Churchill. - This would have stopped the necefsary Summer duties and distrefsed that place very much had the Vefsel left it - as the rafting fireWood for Winter entirely depend on the Seamen?
Mens Employ as last Monday - Hunters of yesterday returned to their Tent."

Apr. 4 Tuesday to Apr. 7 Friday
" An Indian family pitched to the Marsh
Mens Employ nearly the same
English Hunters came from the Eastward with Tent and bedding. - two came from Nelson River & returned the."

Apr. 8 Saturday
" Mr Cook came from his Tent & returned for his things."

Apr. 9 Sunday
" A Native brought a few Skins and Traded."

Apr. 10 Monday
" Men nearly as last Week except Bricklayer who is preparing Lime for building and Armourer Cleaning Hunting Guns."

Apr. 11 Tuesday
" Men as before. - Two families of Natives came in for the Goose Hunt paid debts and Traded a fine afsortment of furrs. - Mr Cook - and Nelson River Hunters - brought home their Tent and bedding - It is with pleasure I Notice that the Hunters from the House have been very succefsful this Season killing of small furs - having brought in upwards of 600 MB - They would have killed more than double this (I have reason to think so) had not our distrefs for provisions obliged me to take the Hunters from trapping. - It is not only the lofs of furs but the expense attending the hire of Indians to kill partridges. - considerably more in my opinion than provisions would have cost in England."

Apr. 12 Wednesday
" The Native Hunters and families came home. Tradesmen as before - Labourers picking Okum."

Apr. 13 Thursday
" Tradesmen the same - rest employed clearing Snow from the Works - And clearing Ware Houses for packing."

Apr. 14 Friday
" No Duty. performed Service for the day."

Apr. 15 Saturday
" Gave the men this day to take what things they want from our Ware House in order to close their Account in York Books this Season. It has occaisioned much murmuring and discontent among the Men on acct of the Brandy & Rum being charged double the price paid at other Settlements. - They all came to me in a body to day and begged to know why they who had been on short allowances of provisions all the Winter should be charged double the price for Liquor to what their fellow Servants at Churchill pay - who had every? plenty. - I informed them the price charged was what the Company paid for Liquor in England - And as to their living they fared alike with myself and Officers They said they were fully convinced of the latter Yet one and all considered themselves as being hardly treated."

[In the margin "Tho. Clouston and Tho. Moore who accomp'd Mr Jarvis to Churchill say that while they were at that settlement a Bill of Sale was offered? up in the Mens appartment wherein Liquors were? charged at the old stated price. at this place they are double."]

Apr. 16 Sunday
" All the Invalids removed to the back of this Island Goose Tent."

Apr. 17 Monday
" Sent three Men to take up setting Guns - Tradesmen as last Week - Rest variously Employed."

Apr. 18 Tuesday
" Men returned with setting Guns - Rest as before - Natives came from the Marsh and had their Annual Treat prior to the Geese flying."

Apr.19 Wednesday
" Began building Chimney? in Packing Ware House. Rest as before. James Smith Steward very ill & past hopes of recovery."

Apr. 20 Thursday
" Mens Employ the same."

Apr. 21 Friday
" About 9 AM James Smith Steward departed this Life. He had been upwards of two Months under the Surgeons care. - Habitual Indolence and propensity to drinking brought on a complication of disorder which baffled the power of Medicine and hastened his disolution.
Carpenters making a Coffin - Four digging a Grave - Six afsisting myself and Mr Ward packing Goods for Inland. Rest as before."

Apr. 22 Saturday
" Mens Employ the same. Buried the Remains of James Smith."

Apr. 23 Sunday
" Sent an Indian and two Youths up Nelson River to attend the Crofsing of Deer."

Apr. 24 Monday
" St Georges Day kept. but the low state of the Magazine prevented the usual annual exercise with small Arms. - We have not at York so much Gunpowder as is required Inland alone by fifteen Barrels - Out of which Trading Indians who visit york are to be supplied - and provisions for the support of the people procured - After this deduction very little will remain to supply the Inland Settlements.
In the Evening the Natives sent to Severn the 4th Instant returned.
- The two Youths who accompanied the Indian yesterday up Nelson River returned with the Melancholly intelligence that the Man had destroyed himself? in a fit of Insanity."

Apr. 25 Tuesday
Early this morning sent six Men and one of the Indian youths mentioned yesterday to bring the Manic if alive to the Fort (or bury him if they find him Dead). They returned in the afternoon with the poor Man in a strange deranged state and his body much lacerated with a Knife but am in hopes the Wounds are not mortal.
The men were a long time before they could find him as he had gone from the Tent (in which the Lads left him yesterday) and rambled thro' the Snow which is several feet thick into the Woods. They found him in a hole quite naked, in which state he had been the whole night. - On the Mens approach towards him he appeared quite alarmed & wished to avoid them but being benumbed with Cold - rendered him totally uncapable of making resistance. - On his being informed? that I had sent for him he became ? and suffered himself to be confined on the Sled on which he was hauled home.
It is worthy of remark that notwithstanding the Severity of the Weather & the poor Man without any Cloathing - Covering or Shelter - no part of him is frozen.
Six Men packing Goods for Inland. Tradesmen at their respective oocupations - rest variously Employed."

Apr. 26 Wednesday
" The Weather continues remarkably severe - The Thermometer during last night 22 below the Cypher. the Snow is deeper on the ground at this time than it has any Season since my residence in this Country. - This day last year, the River Ice gave way, and we were surrounded with Water. at present there is no appearance of thaw. The Snow being in many places within our Gardens and Works from twelve to fourteen feet deep.
Two appointed to attend the the poor Manic - Eight Wheeling snow from the Works to the Banks edge. - Rest nearly as before."

Apr. 27 Thursday and 28 Friday
" Nearly the same. Indians came from the Marsh to beg provisions. no Game of any kind stirring - No lefs than 90 Natives are at this time dependant on the factory besides 55 Englishmen - Among the whole a large quantity of Victuals is required barely to support Life."

Apr. 29 Saturday
" Mens Employ the same."

Apr. 30 Sunday
" Sent several Indians up Nelson River to look for Deer."

May 1 1797 Monday to May 7 Sunday
" Mens Employ as last Week
Packing Goods & provisions for Inland - The Bacon sent last year of bad quality, - unfit for human Eating, - the whole is ?, - the disorder which now rages at this place is attributed to the unwholesomenefs of this food - Several of the Officers and Men are in the Sick list. Magnus Garston had the misfortune to fall from the Top of one of the buildings - and reced many severe bruises."

May 8 Monday
" Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Six packing Goods for Inland. - Rest except those in Sick list variously Employed Clearing Snow from Works opening Drains &c. The Natives sent up Nelson River the 30th Ult. returned - No Game stirring."

May 9 Tuesday
" Men nearly the same - Sent Natives up the River to look for Game."

May 10 Wednesday
" Men nearly the same except those packing yesterday are employed Slinging Bundles for carrying - Geese made their appearance on the Coast - Natives came for spare Guns and feather Bags."

May 11 Thursday to May 13 Saturday
" Mens Employ nearly the same - Having no Eatables in the House besides Salt Beef and Rancid Bacon we could not commerate? the Anniversary of this day as formerly - Our Distrefs for provisions is indeed great as we have no grain to serve as a substitute for Animal food."

May 14 Sunday
" Indians brought in a few partridges - which were served to the Sick."

May 15 Monday
" Tradesmen as last Week - Sailors overhauling Buoys Moorings &c. - Two Men slinging Runlents? for Inland. Rest preparing things ready for leaving the factory so soon as the River Ice gives way. Late in the Evening the Natives sent up the River last Tuesday returned with two Beaver and two Geese."

May 16 Tuesday to May 20 Saturday
" Mens Employ nearly the same - Sent off five Indians up this River to Hunt for Game."

May 21 Sunday
" We have not had one day since the commencement of this Month free from frost Snow Sleet or Hail. which continued the whole of this without intermifsion."

May 22 Monday
" Tradesmen as last Week and those Employed Slinging Runlets for days past and filling them with high Sp'ts. part of Men Employed weighing and packing provisions for Inland - Rest variously Engaged.
Part of the Natives sent up the River last week returned with a few Geese - the rest intend waiting the Crofsing of Deer."

May 23 Tuesday
" Mens Employ nearly the same. One of the Natives left up the River came to the fort with the Joyful Intelligence of his having killed several Deer near Rain Bow Gut Way and requested that Englishmen might be sent for them."

May 24 Wednesday
" At day break this morning fitted out Twenty two Men and the Native of yesterday with Sleds to haul home Venison - Sent to the Natives the back of this Island to acquaint them of Deer Crofsing - Six Hunters set off immediately - Rest of Men preparing for Inland."

May 25 Thursday
" The same - Those men sent up the River Yesterday returned with upwards of 2000 lbs of Venison. which enabled me , God be praised to serve out once more full allowance of Animal food to my people. a blefsing they have not enjoyed since last December."

May 26
" The Men who returned yesterday with venison are much disabled by Snow blindnefs and violent pain in their Limbs, greater part are under the surgeons care, confined to their Cabins. indeed it is not to be wondered at when it is known that the Men had to haul Sleds, heavy loaded, on the River Ice (covered with Snow and Water nearly two feet Deep) upwards of Eighteen Miles - and obliged to Sleep one Night on their return, without any Covering or Shelter whatever.
Tradesmen at their respective occupations, rest Salting Venison. - Five Natives brought in Sleds loaded with Deers flesh."

May 27 Saturday
" Six Wheeling Snow from the Works to the Bank. Eight preparing for Inland, Nine under the Surgeons care. rest variously Employed."

May 28 Sunday
" Two Natives came in with Geese and Venison."

May 29 Monday
" This is the first clear day we have had since the commencement of this month - during which the weather has been severe - Raw Cold - with frosty nights Hail Snow and Sleet alternately - the? wind blowing strong from the NW and variable to the NE Quarter - the Snow is at this time remarkably deep. Men Employed nearly as last Week - Indians came in with Geese and Venison."

May 30 Tuesday
" Mens Employ the same - Swallows and Martins? made their appearance - Began breaking up part of our gardens with Pick Axes."

May 31 Wednesday
" Mens Employ the same."

June 1 1797 Thursday
" The same - About 3 PM the River Ice gave way and forced a pafsage down the South Channel. The north Channel remains firm."

June 2 Friday
" About 2 AM the North Channel River Ice gave way abreast the fort, and went down with great rapidity, until it reced a Check from fast ground Ice below the old factory when it immediately rose the water to a great height forcing large pieces (of Ice) on the plantation - carrying all that impeded it progrefs before. It has already done much Damage - The slip? and Launch is part carried away. - The depth of water is too Great together with the heavy Ice with which the Bank and plantation is Loaded prevents my containing? the Injury done. - The ? - and part? of the Shallop are driven on the platform from which I judge that vefsel is totally shattered. The fort is at this time (notwithstanding the height of ground its built on 12 ft ? higher than Old York) surrounded by water. - Her? Land? flood? is encreasing? and entered the back of our Works. All the Boats are secured by Land fasts? within the Stockadoes, indeed the prospect around is awfully Grand - at the same time alarming and dangerous.

June 3 Saturday
" Sent fourteen Men to the Marsh for Geese and Venison - Land flood increasing - from which there is no danger as the Water in river is falling off tho the Ice remains much the same."

June 4 Sunday
" A Severe frost with Snow - Ice in motion several times to day."

June 5 Monday
" Three in Sick list. Tradesmen at their respective occupations. - Sent fifteen? to the Goose Tent. Rest packing up? sleges? for Inland. - This afternoon the Ice gave way and pafsed down the River with great velocity, the weight of Ice forcing large pieces one on the other - forming stupendious piles. - We observed with our Glafses that it was above the Mast of the Sloop, which we are apprehensive is carried away with the Marsh Beacons. - To see such large heavy bodies of Ice in motion is wonderful. - Its awful and grand in appearance. - In the Evening the Ice had a pafsage to Sea and the Channel of the River appeared. - Large fields of Ice is left on the Banks - and those left along shore resembles stupendious Rocks many feet above the Waters edge."

June 6 Tuesday
" Water fallen within the last 24 hours upwards of fifteen feet perpendicular. - Hail Snow & Sleet alternately. - Sent ten Men for Geese - part of the Indians came from the Goose Tent inform me that the high Water yesterday filled the Marsh with heavy Ice, which drove the Geese from their feeding Ground - and that it was with difficulty the Hunters saved themselves the Water was so suddenly on them - Rest of Men employed nearly as yesterday."

June 7 Wednesday
" All hands employed this Morning clearing Ice from Bank and cutting a pafsage thro it to the Water. - Launched a Boat into the River, and sent Mr James Sutherland and five men to examine the state of the Craft below the old Battery House - On their return Mr Sutherland informs that the Stern? and Stem? of the Sloop, with all her works above the Cabin floor together with her Mast and all her timbers level with the Main deck? are carried away. that he found the Mast in two pieces some distance within the Marsh. - Mr Sutherland further says that only part of the Keel and few of the lower Timbers of the Long Boat are left. that the Marsh Beacons are entirely carried away and the foundations of the Old Battery not to be seen. - The Ice along shore is he tells me thirty feet perpendicular above the waters edge.
A similar circumstance of the late breaking up of the River Ice at this place has not happened in the memory of the oldest Native, and Never I believe has? an Instance occured of its having done so much Injury in one Season at York. - Having left? all the Craft usually employed unloading of Ship - The Sloop and long Boat were last? in their old winters stations where no Ice or Water was ever known to reach, that ever injured them? - The Shallop was condemned by the Council last Ship time as unfit for Service. Was placed near the Launch as a protection to the bank of the Plantation, that is also demolished, with part of the Launch, and both the Slips are entirely carried away."

June 8 Thursday
" Men variously Employed preparing for Inland, Digging Gardens &c &c. Sick and Tradesmen as before."

June 9 Friday
" Took Men & Boat & went up River to examine Banks, find the deluge has been great upwards much damage is done - and the Islands Shores & banks covered with heavy Ice to an amazing height. Rest as before."

June 10 Saturday
" Men as before - part of Indians came from Goose Tent."

June 11 Sunday
" Remainder of Natives came from the Goose Tent. only 1140 Geese killed this Spring - this? occaisioned by the unfavorable Season."

June 12 Monday
" I am apprehensive from the unfavorablenefs of the Weather, and from the observations I have for years made that the Spring will be equally backward Inland, as it has been on the Coast, which induced? me to have a large stock of Trading Articles packed in readinefs for the supply of the Company Servants Inland - and as I have the greatest reliance on the exertions of Mr Sutherland having boats built Inland this Season - I am in hopes - every untoward circumstance will be made good - but should the Boats fail, - I have to dread the consequence & the Inland settlements will be very poorly off the ensuing Winter.
Appointed Men this day to conduct four? large Batteaux to Gordon House, by which I hope to convey sufficient Goods to Load all the Canoes that shall be brought down this Season which can return to Load the Boats I ordered to be made, And I hope this will prevent so many of the Companys Servants from coming to the factory - which will be a great saving in Expense in provisions only - Had Cargoes removed to Launch House."

June 13 Tuesday
" Too bad weather to Load Boats - Men variously Employed on Inland duties - In the Evening three Native youths arrived having left their friends near Steel River - They tell me the Winter still continues Inland that the Snow is remarkably deep and no appearance of its disolving and that their friends are fearful of coming on the Coast until the Weather is more favorable & Warm."

June 14 Wednesday to June 22 Thursday
" Severe frosty Weather thick fog and Raw Cold.
Fitted out Natives of last night and sent them off, engaged them to Hunt for Men conducting Boats.
Had craft Loaded with Trading Goods and about Noon embarked for Gordon House accompanied by thirty Englishmen and Seven Natives. that in which I embark is conducted by Natives only, the Steersman excepted.
Delivered up the Keys and charge of the factory to Mr Cook who is to attend Natives, and Mr James Sutherland the Workmen.
Nothing worthy notice occured during my Journey to Gordon House, except that of Meeting with Natives on their way to the factory with the produce of their Hunt. - we were succefsful in Killing Game for the support of the people, and I arrived at the Rock store House the 22'd in the Morning where I found several Indians who had been waiting some days to see me."

June 23 Friday to July 2
" Laid out Ground for the errecting? of a New building as I intend to convert the present Errections into Store Houses. About Noon Willm Manson & party conducting the other Boats arrived & delivered their Cargoes safe.
During my stay at Gordon House several Natives arrived from whom I learnt that the Lakes and Rivers Upwards had not yet given way. - I had all the furs Traded by Mr Whitford packed - and dispatched Men and large Batteaux to the factory with them with orders to Mr Cook to fit them out with a Lading of Trading Goods for this place. - Engaged the Men early to collect Timber, procure Bark and do other necefsary duties to forward the Buildings - until the 2d July when three Canoes of Natives arrived with part of the Furs Traded by Mr Hallet at Jack River which Settlement they left thirteen days ago, in Company with a Canoe of Englishmen whom they do not expect can arrive in Ten days on account of the Rivers and Lakes upwards not yet broke up. - They inform me they carried their Cargo over part of Pathepow Nippee (or Deep Water Lake) and hauled their Canoes over the Ice - and they did not expect the Englishmen from the Upper Settlements would be able to pafs before the latter part of this Moon.
When I hear from so many people and from different quarters that there is no probability of seeing Mr Geo. Sutherland, or any of the Co's Servants for such length of time. - Wrote Instructions as a guidance for Mefs Sutherland and Whitford to forward the necefsary duties, to prevent the Trade from suffering next Year from the latenefs of the Season. - began making preparation for my return to the factory. For me to remain at this place & maintained? when the Inland Servants will arrive, would be only wasting of time, - as I am very certain none of the Trading Indians will leave York until they see me & I concluded that it would be saving of much expense to return there as soon as pofsible."

July 3 Monday
" Gave directions respecting the carrying on building and other duties - and the Employment of all the Young hands whom I leave at Gordon House - together with a Carpenter - and two pair Sawyers - And about 7 AM Embarked in a Batteaux Loaded with furs accompanied by four Natives and one Englishman. At Noon met Willm Manson and party conducting a Large Batteaux Loaded with Trading Goods. - His Cargo will increase the amount of Articles in store there considerably. - In the whole amounting to upwards of 30,000 MB besides provisions for the Companys Servants.
Proceeded all night and arrived at York Fort about noon on - Tuesday 4th."

July 4 Tuesday
" Where I found businefs had been conducted with much Judgement during my absence. - Many tribes of Indians on the plantation to Welcome my arrival and had the pleasing satisfaction hearing that plentiful supplies of provisions had been brought and that all the Natives who had hitherto arrived had honorably paid their debts amounting to upwards of 5000 MB, besides having brought a valuable Trade.
The Weather Since my absence - very variable. - during my Journey to Gordon House - the Cold was intense with Hail Sleet and Snow alternately - Dreary indeed the prospect for the latter part of June - No herbage? to be seen, or the least appearance of foliage - the banks of the River were loaded with heavy Ice and the Surrounding Hills Covered with Snow -
For the last six days very sultry - much thunder and Lightening with heavy Rain - and flys so numerous & troublesome as to exceed beleif - What made them more tormenting - I had no shelter to protect myself from them. No stuff for making of Tents was sent us last Season - obliged me to Sleep in the Boat every night from the time of my leaving the Fort, until my Return and the Boats Tarpaulin which covered the Goods was the only shelter I have had to defend myself from the Rain and bad weather."

July 5 Wednesday
" Men variously Employed - Early this Morning Seven Canoes of Bungees arrived tolerably well Loaded with furs - engaged in Trading room the whole day."

July 6 Thursday
" Men variously Employed afsisting in sorting and tying up skins - Five Canoes of Natives arrived."

July 7 Friday
" All hands engaged packing furs - Trading with Natives &c - Two Canoes of Natives arrived."

July 8 Saturday
" Employed nearly as yesterday"

July 9 Sunday
" Engaged in Trading Room the whole day."

July 10 Monday
" Three Collecting Stones for the Bank, five afsisting packing Furs - Tradesmen variously engaged - Rest Trading with Natives &c - Bungee Natives went away.
In the afternoon Mr William Sinclair Arrived, he left his Canoes and People the back of this Island who are waiting a favorable Wind to round the point of Marsh - His Trade much as last year.
Mr Sinclair informs me that James? F....? a good careful Servant was unfortunately drowned the 11th November last."

July 11 Tuesday
" Sent five Men with the Shipwright to bring the hulk? of the Sloop up the River In order to have it broke up. very probably many of her timbers may? be brought into use for a small vefsel. - Rest variously Employed. - Nine Englishmen conducting three Large Canoes Loaded with furs arrived from the Split Lake - as did three Canoes from the same quarter - conducted by Indians."

July 12 Wednesday
" The Wreck of the Sloop brought to this place with the Tide. - To keep her affloat Empty pipes were slung under her bottom. - Inland Men packing furs. Rest variously Employed."

July 13 and July 14
" Mens Employ nearly the same. Sent three Canoes of Natives to look for Game.
Engaged twenty two Natives and sent them off in Eleven Canoes Loaded with Trading Goods to the Split Lake."

July 15 Saturday
" Early this morning an Indian arrived from Gordon House with Letters informing me of the safe arrival of Mefs George Sutherland and Companys Servants from the upper Settlements. - And about Noon Willm Manson and party of nine men conducting two large Batteaux Loaded with 180 Packs of furs. - I have the pleasing satisfaction of hearing that the plan which I have had in agitation for the last seven years is carried into execution this Season. - Two Large Batteaux of thirty feet Keel each have been brought from the upper Settlements to the head of Trout River, Loaded with furs and provisions - A distance of upwards of 1200 Miles and navigated thro' Rivers which were before deemed impafsable - This is what I never could have accomplished while Mr Tomison had the management of affairs Inland as he set his face against every improvement for the benefit of Trade and I will affirm had this plan been adopted when I first proposed it, the Trade from Inland would have amounted to double what it is at this time, and very few Canadians would have been in this Country to oppose us.
Mr Sutherland is waiting at Gordon House to dispatch Men and Canoes with Goods to Load the Batteaux, also to fit out others for the upper Settlements - Men variously Employed."

July 16 Sunday
" Eleven Canoes of Natives set off to their Winters Quarters. Part took trading Goods to Lake House."

July 17 Monday
" Sent Eighteen Men to raft home firewood. Rest variously employed. five Canoes of Natives set off to their Winter hunting Ground - Three Canoes of Natives arrived.
Mefs Geo Sutherland, Longmoor, Isham and Fidler arrived accompanied by Eighteen Men in Seven large Canoes and one Batteaux Loaded with Furs. - Mr George Sutherland tells me that Men in Seventeen Canoes have been dispatched from Gordon House Loaded with Trading Goods. Ten of which are to convey Cargoes for the Boats waiting at the head of Trout River, and return with a Lading of furs - Men in five Canoes are to accompany the Boats Inland ? , and two to proceed to Jack River Settlement, and return from thence to Gordon Store for another Cargo.
The distance which large Craft ? been navigated this Season is sufficiently convincing that my representation by Letter for years past, and what I proposed to the Honble Committee in England, was not a chimirical project - had this been put in five years ago, the Trade might been double what it is at this time - it would been the means of checking our enterprizing oponents and Stopped them from carrying out such large Cargoes they annually take with them, - and prevented them from having that footing in this Country they now have.
Mr Tomison always set his face against Boats being employed in Inland businefs, - and many ungenerous steps were pursued, even to stop those from going between this factory and Gordon House. - This mode of conveying up Goods was not agreeable to the men as it of course would lefsen their consequence as Steersmen &c &c if this method was followed, and for which reason it was opposed. - Every mean artifice was pursued to stop men from going to the Rock in Boats four years ago, And had it not been for mine? dint? of perserveance, and accompanying the Boats myself - I have every reason to think it would have been set aside. - However I am pleased having accomplished an object I have had many years at heart - and great merit is due to Mr Sutherland for having carried it into execution. - I am confident of the mode that has been adopted this Season for the conveying of Goods Inland is followed in future, much benefit will arise to the Honble Company. - The saving in mens Wages will be considerable - The upper Settlements will be better supplied with Goods, the want of which many thousand beaver ? been lost Annually & this accomplished with half the number of Men - It will also stop the Arrogance of Steersmen, who have of late taken every advantage that offered to raise their Wages - They well knew their Services were required - And in proportion to the necefsity there? has been , of having new Stations errected, and where Canoes were required to convey Goods, - they embraced? the opportunity made large demands, in which, I am confident they were encouraged - and their wages have been advanced almost annually.
This will in a great measure be done away, very few Canoes will be required for the supplying of the Saskashewan Settlements, and those Canoes will in a few Years be chiefly employed between Gordon House and the Knee Lake , where I intend to have Store Houses Errected to supply the Batteaux annually. - Large Craft can also be employed between this and Gordon House which has been sufficinetly proved this Season by the large stock of Goods Stores and provisions sent from York.
It is a pleasing reflecting finding that 18 Men in two Boats perform the same duty as forty men in Ten Canoes - It is to be observed that an able Bowsman & an able Steersman is required for every Canoe besides an old experienced? Canoe Man and young hand as Middle Men whose wages on an average amounts 70£ frequently more seldom lefs - It? requires no more than a Steersman and Bowsman to each Batteaux. - the rest are men that are considered as unfit working of Canoes consequently are those of low wages - the saving this year at a moderate calculation is upwards of 400£ in Mens Wages only, exclusive of provisions. - An object in my opinion of some moment and ought in my opinion be attended? to by those who have the management of the Co's Concerns in this quarter.
Mr Sutherland informs me that the Men appear a different people to what they were when he first went Inland - willing ready and obliging - tho they made some murmuring on account of not having enough necefsaries to supply them , such as Cotton Shirts, Duck Trowsers &c."

July 18 Tuesday
" All hands employed on Inland duty - Three Canoes of Natives arrived."

July 19 Wednesday
" Called a Council this day to engage Men. a few entered into Contract the rest objected returning Inland on account of not having Supplies for them and wish to wait the arrival of the Ship. Men nearly as before - Five men came from the Woods with Rafts."

July 20 Thursday
" Men variously Employed preparing for Inland - Carrying Wood up Bank &c afsisted by Natives."

July 21 Friday to July 24 Monday
" Mens Employ the same - sent Men for more rafts - Three Canoes of Natives went away. took Trading Goods to Lake House. Six Men came from the Woods with rafts. Rest as before. Two families of Natives set off to their Winter Hunting Ground. - Fitted with Canoes and supplied five families of Churchill Home Guards with Ammunition &c and sent them to that Settlement. - It was attended with some difficulty before I could get them from this place where most of their relations reside. Trusted them Debt which they are to pay Mr Stayner."

July 25 Tuesday
" Busily Employed on Inland duties - One family of Natives arrived.
Early this morning fitted out the Mercury? Batteaux Loaded with Trading Goods and sent off Ten Men to Gordon House - Several Indians arrived."

July 26 Wednesday
" All the Men sent to the Woods the 17th returned with Rafts. rest variously Employed.
This morning Tide Mefs George Sutherland Isham & Fidler accompanied by Ten Men in three Large Canoes, set off for the Inland Settlements. - I refer your honors to No. [blank] Country Correspondence my Instructions to Mr Sutherland - And I also wish Instructions how I am to act, with respect to my holding Correspondence with the Canadian proprietors having reced three Letters from them this Season, only one of which I answered, - the whole are entered in Correspondence. - Many men who accompanied Mr Longmoor are in the Surgeons list, which circumstance stop ? Canoes at this place."

July 27 Thursday
" Inland Men afsisting packing of furs - those whose times are expired & will not agree to your honors terms afsisting factory Men carrying Wood up Bank."

July 28 Friday
" The same"

July 29 Saturday
" The same - Four families of Natives went away. took Bundles of Goods to Lake House."

July 30 Sunday
" Early this Morning Nine Englishmen in three Large Canoes Loaded with Trading Goods set off for Lake House. Two Natives arrived with a few Ducks."

July 31 Monday
" The Natives sent to Lake House with trading Goods the 14th Instant returned having delivered their Cargoes safe. Factory Men &c with Natives Carrying Wood up Bank. others packing furs - and Trading Goods."

Aug. 1 1797 Tuesday
" Early this Morning Mr William Sinclair accompanied by two Indians set off to Lake House. - Sent Eight Men to set five fathom Sand hole beacon. - Rest as before. - Began taking stock on remains."

Aug. 2 Wednesday
" Men as yesterday. Finished carrying Wood up Bank. This afternoon Mefs Rofs and Oman accompanied by thirty five men in Eleven Canoes arrived Loaded with furs. - Mr Rofs informs me that Mr David Thompson left your honors Service the 21st May last and entered the Canadian Employ. He has I hear been in treaty? with them for the last two years - I am rather inclined to think that this young Man has been encouraged by others on this Establishment to pursue the steps he has taken, - and my reason for these surmises? are - from the conversation of Mr Wright Surgeon during Winter -
It is a known fact that for the last four years the minutest transaction of this factory have been made known to the Canadians - and many of our plans have been rendered abortive, - but this is not at all surprizing when it is known that Mr Wright and Mr Thomas now at Severn - each? reced? payment of 20 £ Wages? from the Canadians during their stay Inland. - This circumstance Mr Wright informed me during last Winter.
But what astonishes me still more is Mr George Sutherland informed me that he was acquainted of Mr Jarvis's appointment to York last Season by Mr Shaw, one of the Canadian Proprietors - Some time before he reced any Letters or intelligence from York by the fall Canoes - Mr Sinclair received similar information which came from Canadians stationed near him - before he heard it officially from me, - notwithstanding a Canoe was dispatched from this place on the Ships arrival to him. - How or in what manner they gained this intelligence - It is out of my power to say - but so certain? it is, that Mr Jarvis's visit to York was known to the Canadian Officers Inland before Those in this Employ heard it Officially from this place."

Aug. 3 Wednesday
" Mens Employ nearly the same
This day the Council afsembled to engage Men whose Contracts expire this Season - Almost the whole objected entering into Contract before the Ship arrived. - and the reasons they afsign is much the same as those mentioned the 19th Ult. - to which they now add that we have no Victuals to supply them. - to return Inland.
The Council also took into consideration Mr Rofs's report of his pursuits to the Northward last Season, and the probability of carrying it on the ensuing Year.
Mr Rofs again offered his Service to conduct the undertaking, but a very material objection was staited?, the want of Gunpowder - without which Mr Rofs declared he could neither procure Furs or purchase provisions for the support of his people, - and he did not think it prudent to leave this place, to go into such an impoverished Country as the Athapascow, without having proper necefsaries.
It is to be observed, that the Goods for the Athapascow were packed, and sent to Gordon House by the first Boats and Instructions sent to Mr Whitford - that Mr Rofs was to have the choice of Articles. - Being short, very short of Gunpowder, it was not in my power to send half the quantity required Inland - Mr Sutherland arriving first at that Settlement, (my not being there) sent all the stock of this Article from Gordon House by the first Canoes for the supply of the Saskachiwan? Settlements - None is now left for other places, none left for Trading Indians.
Mr Rofs is of opinion that in using the greatest expedition the ? of men is capable - it would be impofsible to reach Cumberland House in time to get a supply - as the Boats & Canoes by which the Gunpowder is sent, will have pafsed that Settlement before any Canoe dispached from this place would arrive there. In the consideration of these together with other matters that came to the knowledge of the Council - which rendered it difficult to carry on the undertaking this Season.
It was unanimously agreed to Relinquish all pursuits to the Athapascow and leave that trade solely to be carried on by the Company's Servants from Churchill. And it was further agreed that Mr Rofs should be fitted out with all expedtion?, to take John Park and John Allan, who was left in charge of Goods on remains at Bedford House, - and Convey them to Cumberland. Mr Rofs having appointed them to meet him a few days Journey to the Westward of thet Settlement & in the main Track to the Athapascow.
I cannot pafs over this days? proceedings without making a few comments, - As my conduct has been already called in question respecting this undertaking, - I consider myself bound in Justice to myself and friends to exculpate myself. - And hope it will not be deemed impertinant if my opinion , should differ from others.
Anxious as I have been for years past to get footing into the Athapascow Country - I feel myself much hurt at the failure of the undertaking. - With whom it originates it is out of my power to determine. - The encouragement I held out to men, it is well known. - those I engaged appeared fully satisfied, willing and ready to encounter, the difficulties naturally to be expected in a Journey of such length. - The Officers appointed to conduct the undertaking were equal to the Task, Implicit confidence was placed on their Judgement, They left this place 26th July 1794 fully satisfied with their terms, Appointment and fitting out. - In short nothing was left but to carry the plans into execution. - Matters were so arranged that not the least doubt was entertained of its succefs. - As stations were directed to be made that Season to afsist them at a greater distance from the Coast. - so that supplies could be sent from one to the other without lofs of time - These matters stood when I returned to England Pr the Ship 1794.
During my absence from this Country - I am totally Ignorant of the measures pursued (Mr Wright accompanied the men part of the Journey) but from what has happened, they appear calculated to favor the Interest of our Oponents, more than that of the Honble Company.
I have not seen David Thompson since my return from England. - Mr Rofs came to York last Year, when he wished to be recalled? this - In consequence of Mr Rofs's request. - Mr David Thompson was appointed to have the conducting of the undertaking to the Athapascow Country on Mr Rofs leaving it - instead of which he (DT) left this Service and entered the Canadian Employ. This circumstance did not come to my knowledge before Mr Rofses Arrival two days ago - Yet by what has? transpired that day and since. - His agreement with the Canadians was known to Mr Wright and several of the Officers two Years ago, - and the death of one of the proprietors (Mr Robt Thompson) during my absence in England with whom the agreement was made? stopped David Thompson from leaving this Service last year.
Those Gentlemen after having been fitted out to proceed to the Northward, keeping as it were Year after year, a short distance from stations occupied by the Company's other Servants without making any progrefs into this Country where their Instructions directed them. there is every appearance of their views having been inimical to their Employers Interest. - And it would be galling to me to have it said that I connived at so flagrant breach of duty - Upon the whole all circumstances considered, great room is left for unfavorable surmises - And that underhand steps have been pursued to set aside the undertaking appears evident. - I have mentioned my Sentiments on this Subject to Mr Rofs - who would willingly returned to England to vindicate himself but being the only person who knew the road to where the Men and Goods on Remains are left, obliged me to appoint him to go to the Mens relief. - Had the Men been left, there is every reason to suppose that they would have fallen a sacrafice to want before the ensuing Winter elapsed. this obliged me to appoint him to go to their relief and conduct them to Cumberland House."

[something written in the margin but it is cut off by a bad scan]

Aug. 4 Friday
" Carpenters repairing Launch. Inland Men packing Goods. Rest variously Employed - Several Indians went away left part of their families to take Powder to them on the Ships Arrival."

Aug. 5 Saturday
" Employment of men as before. In the afternoon Six of the Men dispatched in Batteaux the 25th Ult. to Gordon House returned, having left four there to afsist carrying on building. Mr Sutherland writes me that in consequence of so many Men refusing to go Inland for want of necefaries to supply them, he could only Man three Canoes to take with him to Cumberland House - Of Course Mr Fidler returned to the factory for want of conveyance.
Five Canoes of Home Guards set off to their Winters Quarters leaving part of their families to convey Gunpowder on the Ships Arrival."

Aug. 6 Sunday
" Engaged in Trading Room, and on Inland duty the whole day."

Aug. 7 Monday
" Sent Eighteen Men to raft home fire Wood, the greater part are those whose Contracts expire and refuse to return Inland. - Tradesmen and others variously Employed. - Eight Canoes of Home Guard Natives set off to their Winters Quarters leaving part of their families behind to take up Gunpowder on the Ships Arrival. Four Canoes arrived."

Aug. 8 Tuesday
" Mens Employ the same - Indians of yesterday went away as did three Canoes of home Guards - Several men preparing to Leave the factory."

Aug. 9 Wednesday
" Had double headed Beacon set - A Manancholly Catastrophe happened on the Mens return, James Sinclair Bricklayer and William Leigh, Smith - unfortunately fell out of the Boat and were both drowned near the old factory. Their lofs will be severely felt at this place - they were obliging, careful good Workmen much beloved by their fellow Servants & respected by their Superiors as valuable Servants. Men employed the remainder of the day dragging for their bodies returned unsuccefsful. - Rest packing furs, repairing Launch & preparing for Inland."

Aug. 10 Thursday
" This mornings Tide Mefs Rofs, Longmoor and Fidler accompanied by nineteen Men in Six large Canoes set off Inland Loaded with Trading Goods. - Had remainder of Buoys laid - Indians arrived with a little Venison - A Native Woman died on the plantation."

Aug. 11 Friday
" Natives of yesterday went away and one Canoe arrived. This afternoon Seven Men in two Large Canoes arrived from Jack River Loaded with furs - Young Smith the Co's Apprentice returned with them - no Man will permit him to be of their Company he is so incorrigible."

Aug. 12 Saturday
" Much Snow fell this morning and every thing around has the appearance of Winter before the Ice of last is disolved. much now remains in sight on the Hay Island. - that which was left on the flats did not disappear 'till within these few days.
Mens Employ nearly the same. Six Men came from the Woods with Rafts - Having no other food to supply Men besides Salted Venison occaisions much discontent among the people - Yet I must acknowledge that I find a sensible difference ? In the behaviour of the Inland Servants to what they were formerly."

Aug. 13 Sunday
" Sent Several Indians to the Eastward to Kill young Ducks & Geese - Sent Men to the Woods for more rafts."

Aug. 14 Monday
" Sent three Men to Cut Grafs for Hay. Ten repairing Launch Six packing furs - Rest with Natives carrying Wood up Bank."

Aug. 15 Tuesday
" Mens Employ the same."

Aug. 16 Wednesday
" The same - A Vefsel appeared in the Offing."

Aug. 17 Thursday
" The same - All the men came from the Woods with Tent and bedding & brought with Ten Rafts. - John Harper accompanied by an Indian arrived from Lake House with a few furs and Letters from Mr Sinclair who left this place the 1st Instant. In the afternoon the Brig Beaver entered the River - after repeating the Signals and Anchored abreast the old Battery. - Soon after one of the Sailors came up with and informed me they found the body of James Sinclair, one of the Men drowned the 9th Inst. Sent Men in Boat to bring the Corpse to the factory for Interment."

[In the margin -"Lake House is situated at the Ta task qua hah Sackahagan or Split Lake."]

Aug. 18 Friday
" When tide served the Brig run up and Anchored abreast the fort, Mefs Thomas and Taylor Landed - Mens Employ nearly as yesterday - Buried the remains of James Sinclair."

Aug. 19 Saturday
" Mens Employ nearly the same. Severn Cargo Landed - about 6000 MB somewhat more than half last years Trade. Will Sclater Carpenter, Nich'l Spence Cooper, John Irvin Taylor and James Wooldrige Labourer came on shore from Brig - put them on factory duties.
William Budge Steersman unable to proceed Inland returned from Gordon House in a large Canoe accompanied by two Men. triffling as this lofs of one Canoe may appear, yet it is a matter of some consequence, - as it will make a difference in next years returns nearly 1000 MB.
Several Indians came from the Eastward in hopes of seeing Mr Ballanden whom they expect out Pr next Ship."

Aug. 20 Sunday
" The Native who accompanied John Harper from Lake Ho. the 17th Instant has not been seen or heard of by any one since he left his Tent on the Evening of his arrival?
Tis conjectured that he has distroyed himself in a fit of insanity to which he is at times subject."

Aug. 21 Monday
" Delivered Capt Taylor signal Instructions - Beaver Brig Dropt down the River - Five Men cutting Grafs - Rest with Natives carrying Wood up Bank. Engaged two Indians to convey Letters to Mr Sinclair and they set off soon after."

Aug. 22 Tuesday
" Finished carrying Wood up Bank - Men the same."

Aug. 23 Wednesday
" Sent Eight Men for Sloops Mast Anchors &c - also seven to bring home Grafs - Six to collect Stones for Ship - Rest variously Employed.
The Men on their return from the Marsh inform me of their having found the body of an Indian Child almost devoured by Vermin which they burried. Tis supposed the Child belonged to Natives who left the factory about three Weeks ago, and this is confirmed by Home Guard Natives on the Plantation. To enter into the particulars of the rites and ceremonies observed by Indians in the burrial of their Dead, and the Notions they entertain of the future state of their departed friends and Relatives would exceed the limits of this Journal, suffice it to say, the Child in question had been long afflicted in its limbs, & disabled it from walking - And they considered that by covering the body with Earth would not be giving it a fair chance of enjoying free? liberty hereafter. Another cause is afsigned - by Indians now near me - for leaving the Corpse above Ground is done to appease the Evil Genii not to afflict any more of the family.
A Vefsel appeared in the Offing and made Company Ships Signal - She anchored without the Sand?"

Aug. 24 Thursday
" About Noon the Company's Ship King George Anchored in our River. Soon after Captain Richards Mefs Tomison and Tate Landed as did James Sutherland Writer - Your Honors packet delivered. All hands making Hay."

Aug. 25 Friday
" Long Boat came up with provisions which was served out immediately among the people. - part of the pafsengers Landed, some of whom are boys for? twelve to fourteen years of Age, uncapable to perform duty, and being engaged at the same Wages and for the like term of years as Men will occaision much disatisfaction among the Servants - Some of these youths will scarsely be able to render any the least afsistance to the Company - during this first Contract. Men Employed cutting fire Wood for the Ship."

Aug. 26 Saturday
" Brig came up as did the Long Boat - Busily Employed on Inland & Ship Duties. - Long Boat unloaded."

Aug. 27 Sunday
" As before. Indians Arrived."

Aug. 28 Monday
" Unloaded Brig - Long Boat drop't down and came up Pr Tides. Capt Richards went down to the Ship in Long Boat.
Called Council to engaged Men - One and all positively refuse to engage on the Company's Terms and Mr Tomison says without Men he cannot go Inland - he says very few of those Landed Pr Ship are not? fit to go Inland - indeed he declares he will not be at the trouble taking them."

Aug. 29 Tuesday
" Sent men in Boat for Grafs - Capt Richards came up - Seven Men arrived from Gordon House - Necefsity obliged them to leave that Settlement as all the provisions is expended - Only two Men are left with Mr Whitford."

Aug. 30 Wednesday
" Busily engaged on Ship and Inland Duties. Unloaded Brig and Long Boat, Sent Eight Men to raft home Slabs for Ship - Sent six for Grafs - Brig drop't down the River - Entered a few Men into Contract and two agreed to return Inland leaving their terms to the Company, they will by no means accept? the terms? sent out."

Aug. 31 Saturday
" Men variously Employed as before, Brig and Long Boat came up the latter unloaded & drop't down to the Ship - Men came from the Woods with a raft of Slabs - Mr Tomison makes great complaint of the Articles sent out this Season almost the whole dauted? for him he says are not worth carriage Inland. not one of the Gun Worms sent out this Season are fit for an Indian - they will not accept them on any terms & Mr Tomison positively refused taking any of them with him."

Sept. 1 1797 Friday
" Brig unloaded put part of the Homeward bound Cargo on board - Long Boat Stove? had her repaired - Got every thing ready for Mr Tomison to leave the factory tomorrow."

Sept. 2 Saturday
" Early this Morning Mefs Tomison and Oman accompanied by James Sutherland Writer and Twenty four Men in Six Canoes set off for the Inland Settlements. - Your honors will I hope pardon me for remarking the having two Separate Consignments for one place will occaision very much confusion in our Accounts and our Books will appear in a strange Mutilated state - A great many packages have been made up in York Ware Houses, this Ship time and taken to the upper Settlements - And these goods being dauted? for Mr Tomison in York Invoice and the Contents not specified - I am at a lofs to know their quality or quantity - therefore am totally ignorant what is taken Inand this fall - I am in general guided by the Entries made in my package Book, and the Numbers checked off, as? the Goods taken Inland - Six Canoe Cargoes its true, are taken from the factory to day but I believe the amount of Trading Goods to be entered will appear but triffling in our Account Book.
Busily Employed in Ship & Inland Duties - No time is lost with the Crafts."

Sept. 3 Sunday
" Brig came up - Long Boat Drop't down to Ship & came up with the Tide."

Sept. 4 Monday
" Both the Crafts unloaded - Brig took in part of homeward bound Cargo - and drop't down the River."

Sept. 5 Tuesday
" Long Boat dropt down to Ship - Several Indians arrived."

Sept. 6 Wednesday
" All the Small Craft Loaded with Stones and Wood went down to Ship and came up with Tide. - A Vefsel appeared in the Offing & the Queen Charlotte Anchored near her Consort in the afternoon."

Sept. 7 Thursday
" Brig came up. Mefs Jarvis and Stayner Landed, the former appears very much debilitated and totally uncapable to overhaul our small Stock on Remains. Our Books remained open until the time purposely that our Accounts might correspond, - By the advice of Council and Mr Stayner, they was closed this day, and Remains entered in our Account Book as taken the 1st August last. - Several Indians arrived for Ammunition & with a few furs. Mr Renton Landed."

Sept. 8 Friday
" Brig came up and unloaded took in part of Severn outward bound Cargo. - Long Boat came up and unloaded - Mr Renton went on board. Got every thing ready for Mr Cook to leave the factory tomorrow.
Mr Stayner returning to England Pr this Ship speaks much of the Influence he has in Fenchurch Street and there is no Doubt but he will verify the fable of the Dog and the Manger - and speak much in prejudice of our Inland pursuits and of their interferring? with that of Churchill - And as he has already, advances many things contrary? to truth?
John Harper who has been stationed Nearest? the Churchill people Inland for the last three Years, where he acted as Trader &c - was called before the Council and examined? by Mr Stayner, - to whom he declared that he did not think any Indian who visited him would have carried a single skin to anyone belonging to Churchill Factory - that the Canadians would have had the whole he Traded, as the Natives had been long in habits of visiting them and had not been to any Settlement on the Coast for the last Seven Years. - He also explained some other Matters to Mr Stayner of having stopped Natives from visiting the Canadians who were Debtors to Churchill - took their Skins in part of payment and Sent them to Mr Linklater. - This Mr Stayner said had been represented to him quite differently - And John Harper further said that he met an Indian (mentioning the Man's Name) going into the Canadians stationed near him with Moose Meat & furs and knowing that he had been down to Churchill the preceeding? Summer asked hime the reason why he visited the Canadians - The Indian readily said that the Canadian House was nearest his Hunting Ground - when Harper asked him why he did not carry it to him - No I cannot do that said the Indian as Mr Stayner Gave me Cloathing on the condition that he did not supply any of Colen's people with Victuals or furs. - but he made no Condition of not carrying it to the Canadians - upon this Harper said that he prevailed on the Native to accompany him ? the Indian desiring? then? that Secrecy? might be observed - otherwise he would loose his Cloathing another year at Churchill - What did this Indian do he sets off a day or two Journey to Mr Linklater and tells him that Colen's people had taken his furs & Meat that he was bringing to him - and this information was conveyed to Mr Stayner - When Mr Stayner heard these particulars he appeared fully satisfied that Harper had done his duty to his Employers - And acknowledged that he had been misinformed."

[In the margin "John Harper is the person who accompanied Mr D. Thompson in his first? discoveries up Nelson into the Churchill Waters. - and is acquainted with all the Natives in that quarter"]

Sept. 9 Saturday
" Captain Turner came on Shore as did Mr Richards. Busily Employed in the dispatch of the Ship. Early this morning Mr Willm Cook accompanied by William Smith the Co's Apprentice and Six Natives in one Large and four Small Canoes set off for Lake House - He has positive orders to withdraw from all Stations near the Churchill people - and not to encourage any of their Indians to visit him - and is ordered also not to proceed beyond the Split Lake."

Sept. 10 Sunday
" Capt. Turner went on board and Mr Ramsay came on Shore."

Sept. 11 Monday
" Sent down all the small Craft to the Ship with Stones and Wood - Mr Richards went on board and Mr Bell came on shore.
In the Evening four Canoes of Natives arrived with a few furrs and Dryed Moose flesh &c. brought Letters from Mr Tomison and Mr Whitford. I am exceedingly sorry to observe that the former is begginng in his old strain of Maliginty against the Officers - which must be very detrimental to the Company's Concerns - and Justice obliges me to Notice that he declared publickly - that no one would ever seen him again in this Country - had it not been to revenge himself on Mr George Sutherland & some others & that he would not now leave the Country until - he has his will of them. this he confirmed by an Oath - and which I believe him.
Mefs Ramsay and Bell went on board.
Packed remainder of furs and sent the last of the homeward bound Cargo on board.
Discharged from your Honours Service the following men who went on board Ship.

John Clouston - Bowsman - Good - Contract expired
William Leigh --- do. ------do.---------do.
Robert Linklater-- do.------do. ---------do.
James? Davey - Steersman--do. ---------do.
James Murry? --- do. -------do. --------disabled
William Ritch --- do. -------do. ---------do.
Tho. Stranger - Bowsman ---do. ----Pr order of the Honble Committee.
Peter Sabbiston Steersman and Canoe builder. - The Runnaway of 1795 who was delivered up by Mr Shaw to Mr Sutherland last October. - Since which he has conducted himself as a good Servant.
NB all the above from Inland.

from YF
             Thomas Clouston Sailor &c - Good -- Contract expired
             John Houston --- Labourer --- do. ------ do.
             David Robinson - - do. ---- Ruptured --- do.
             James Dafs? ------do. -------do. ---- uselfs requested to return home.
             John Linklater Sawyer - Illnefs obliged his return - Contract ?

from Severn.
             Nich'l Spence Cooper -- Good -- Contract expires
             Joseph Johnson Sailor -- do. ----- do.
             John Irvin --- Taylor - uselefs --- do.
             James Wooldridge? Labourer Indolent - do.
             William Sclater Joiner Quiet good Man but unfit for the Country.

James Harcus? Labourer a Youth engaged this year unfit for the Country.
Mr John Wright Surgeon A Dangerous Man - Wished to stay but having rendered himself obnoxtious in Hudson's Bay - It was the general wish of Officers and Men that he was sent from York Fort."

Sept. 13
" Two Natives arrived with a few furs - they came for a supply of Ammunition. All hands Employed in the dispatch of the Ship.
In the Evening preparing for the close of the packet which when Sealed, will be delivered to Captain John Richards who Intends going on board tomorrow with Mr Jarvis and other pafsangers - should Weather permit.
Pray God send the Ships King George and Queen Charlotte a safe and speedy pafsage to England Amen -
Jos. Colen."


1M161 B.239/a/100

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