"Diary of Occurrences at York Fort Hudsons Bay
by Joseph Colen Chief Factor
Commencing Sept. 13 1797
Ending Sept. 22 1798"


Sept. 13 Wednesday
" This Evening Closed the packet and delivered it to Captain John Richards - who if Weather permits intends? going? on board tomorrow with other Gentlemen Pafsengers."

Sept. 14 Thursday
" Wly Breezes Cloudy with Rain AM afterwards Clear.
About Noon Captain Richards took leave accompanied by Mefs Jarvis, Stayner, Wright and Thomas & went on Board - Saluted them at parting with three Cheers and Nine Guns. Soon after the Beaver Brig Capt. Geo. Taylor Drop't down the? River.
Traded with Indians and Trusted them Winters Debts and five Canoes set off - Men & Boat sent up from the Queen for a few Spars for Yards - which was delivered and returned pr Tide.
Long Boat Drop't down the River. Men variously Employed."

Sept. 15 Friday
" SWly Breezes Clear & fine.
Men variously Employed.
About 2 PM The King George - Queen Charlotte and Beaver Brig got under way and Sailed. Pray God send them a safe and speedy Pafsage to their desired ports Amen."

Sept. 16 Saturday
" Variable Breezes
Early this Morning Men with Long Boat came up with Buoys -
Men variously Employed - Breaking up Sloop repairing Bank &c."

Sept. 17 Sunday
" Heavy Rain During Last night AM Breezes NW & Squally. Part Clear part Cloudy PM Cloudy Mizzling Rain Light Airs Nly
Sent Men in Boat for outer Buoys - Heavy Squalls of Wind obliged their return."

Sept. 18 Monday
" Cloudy with Nly Breezes.
Sent five Men in Long Boat to take up buoys. Rest variously Employed - Breaking up Sloop collecting & breaking Stones for Lime - Slooping Bank - preparing for Building &x. Sent four families Natives acrofs the River to Kill Geese &c."

Sept. 19 Tuesday
" Part Clear part Cloudy with Nly Breezes.
Got Long Boat & Hope? up the Bank - Had Cargo Carried to Launch House.
Began working Still
About Noon Mr Donald Mackay arrived - he left Albany last fall - and met Mr Tomison the 10 Instant at the upper part of the Knee Lake - he tells me that Mr Tomison did not communicate the least intelligence to him of his appointment on this? Establishment. at the same time he informed him that it would be impofsible to reach York before the departure of the Ship which prevented him making that Expedition he might have done."

Sept. 20 Wednesday
" Clear Weather with moderate Breezes NE.
Had four Boats taken up Bank viz. the Peggy, Endeavour, Edward & Mercury -
Got every thing ready for men to set off tomorrow. Three Indians arrived from the Eastward with a few Geese.
Three Canoes arrived from Gordon House with a few Skins - fresh & Dryed Venison."

Sept.21 Thursday
" Breezes SW Clear.
Sent Sixteen Men in two Batteaux Loaded with Trading Goods Provisions &c to Gordon Store. Greater part of the Lads engaged this Season are unable to perform Mens duty and I am apprehensive it will? not be in my power to get suff't Goods conveyed to Gordon House next Spring. This induced me to fit out the Boat this fall? which I am in hopes will forward the Company's Concerns next Summer - and prevent men from proceeding below the Rock store - where I am in hopes of having sufficient Goods for the supply of the upper Settlements.
Opened Cask No. 492 of this years Invoice to supply Natives with Awl Blades - Instead of this being the usual sort sent into this Country find none but Shoe makers Awls which are of no use whatever to Indians - they cannot be converted to any factory use and will only serve (with the Gun Worms sent out this Season) to augment the bulk of uselefs untradeable Goods on this factory's remains.
Rest of Men variously Employed.
Two Canoes of Natives arrived with a few furs."

Sept. 22 Friday
" Wind Weather and Mens Employ nearly the same.
Had upper plating of Launch taken down - and Lime Kiln set.
Five Canoes of Natives went away - and two families sent acrofs the River in Boats. Four Canoes of Bungees arrived well loaded with furs."

Sept. 23 Saturday
" Strong Gales NW Clear.
Had lowerplating of Launch taken up - and Stowed away.
Lime Kiln Lighted
Traded with Natives."

Sept. 24 Sunday
" Fresh Gales NNW part Clear part Cloudy with Showers of Rain - at times Squally.
The Bungee Natives of Friday went away. - Sent ? Men in Boat acrofs the River for Geese - returned in the afternoon with upwards of 100."
[in the margin " Geese Reced - Ometick 36, Iammahoggan 30, Wilks 20, Tommy 20"]

Sept. 25 Monday
" Fresh Breezes NW and variable to the N part Clear part Cloudy with Showers of Rain.
Mefs Donald Mackay & Mr Howse set off to Tent in the Marsh.
Shipwright breaking up Sloop afsisted by four Men. Smith, Carpenters Coopers & Taylors at their respective occupations - Two afsisting in Distilling - Two preparing to leave the factory tomorrow - rest variously Engaged."

Sept. 26 Tuesday
" SW Breezes part Clear part Cloudy.
Mens Employ nearly the same. - Sent T? Colen Writer and two Men to Tent at the Fourteens River and Serve out Ammunition to the Eastward Hunters."

Sept. 27 Wednesday
" Fresh Breezes
Cloudy with Rain
Men variously in House and Ware Houses Distilling &c."

Sept. 28 Thursday
" Breezes NW part Clear part Cloudy with Light Showers of Hail.
Sent four Men to Cut Boats Timbers - Four to Collect Stones - also five for Geese - rest nearly as yesterday."
[in the margin "14 Gall Usquabaugh. Geese reced from Ometick 33, Tommy 10, Wilks 13"]

Sept. 29 Friday
" SW Breezes part Clear part Cloudy
Sharp frosty Morn'g Thermometer +23.
Mens Employ nearly as yesterday except two who accompanied me to the Marsh. The Men sent to Cut Boats Timbers returned."

Sept. 30 Saturday
" Cloudy Misty Weather with SSE Breezes.
Men nearly as before except those preparing to leave the factory tomorrow."

Oct. 1 1797 Sunday
" ? Light Breezes Nly Variable.
Early this morning sent three Men to tent and hunt at Pennycutway River. - they are to be joined by a fourth hand on the Return of Men from Gordon House.
Mr Sutherland went to the Marsh."
[in the margin "Wm Smith, Wm Budge, John Hendry to be joined by Chris. Miller."]

Oct. 2 Monday
" Cloudy with almost continual Rain with variable Breezes Wly.
Tradesmen at their respective Occupations Labourers clearing Lime Kiln.
Two came from the Eastward with Geese."

Oct. 3 Tuesday
" Cloudy dark Weather with variable Breezes
Men nearly as before.
Mr Tate went to the Marsh."

Oct. 4 Wednesday
" part Clear part Cloudy with Ely Breezes
Sent Men for Sand -
Had Store Room filled up
Foundation finished for fur Shed
Rest variously Employed."

Oct. 5 Thursday
" Strong Gales of Wind variable from NE to NW with heavy Rain & Sleet.
All hand variously Employed.
Mr Howse came from the Marsh informs me that Mr McKay receiving? an injury yesterday going acrofs some of the Swamps in Marsh and Strained? himself - Sent Mr Tate to Bleed him -
An Old Indian Man died this day on the Plantation. he had been a valuable Native to this factory - and had many good qualities that few Indians pofsefs."

Oct. 6 Friday
" Gale Continued with unabated Violence with thick Hail & Snow until the afternoon when it became more moderate with Snow at intervals.
Mefs Mackay & Howse returned from the Marsh. Men variously Employed in the House. In the Evening the Men sent to Gordon House the 21st Ult. returned having delivered the Cargo Safe."
[in the Margin "Goods on Remains at Gordon House Exclusive of Slops ... MB 7374 73/90" plus " do. Sent pr Boats do. 3714 4/15" equals "MB 11,089 7/90"]

Oct. 7 Saturday
" fresh Breezes variable Clear frosty Weather.
Snow very Deep around.
Men variously Employed.
Had Charlotte Batteaux taken up Bank - also Sloops Boat.
The Men sent to the Eastward the 28th Ult returned with a few Geese & Venison.
Buried the Remains of old Earchiwisk."

Oct. 8 Sunday
" Light Breezes Variable from W to SSW Clear freezing Weather
Performed Divine Service."

Oct. 9 Monday
" fresh Breezes NW Raw Cold with Mizzling Rain towards Evening Sleet & Snow -
Tradesmen at their respective occupations.
Labourers clearing out Drains - Cellars - and taking up Vegetables from the Garden."

Oct. 10 Tuesday
" AM Cloudy thick weather Severe frost with NW Breezes PM moderate & Clear.
Sent Mr Ward? and three Men to Tent and hunt at French Creek - Twelve Men preparing to leave the factory to morrow. rest as before."

Oct. 11 Wednesday
" Severe freezing Weather wind Variable from West to SSE Clear.
Sent twelve Men to Tent at the Island up the River to cut fire Wood for Next Seasons use.
Two Men came from Pennycutway with fish.
Four Canoes of Natives came from the East only [blank] Geese Killed this fall -
Rest variously Employed."

Oct. 12 Thursday
" Cloudy Weather with light Snow Ely Breezes
Pennycutway Hunters went away
Men variously Employed
Took up remainder of Boats."

Oct. 13 Friday
" Mild Weath Wind nearly as yesterday part Clear part Cloudy with light Showers of Snow.
Had Canoes Stowed away. - Men variously Employed. Chimney to Study built.
Sent Men in boat to a fire acrofs the River made by French Creek Hunters who are in want of wire? & Nets - Sent the latter pr Indian Lads the former taken two days ago."

Oct. 14 Saturday
" Cloudy weather with fresh Breezes SE.
Had Inner yard Cleared out - Men as before."

Oct. 15 Sunday
" Cold Raw Weather with S Breezes."

Oct. 16 Monday
" Cloudy Weather with NW Breezes inclinable to Snow
All hands employed Stacking of Hay.
Sent Natives Hunting."

Oct. 17 Tuesday
" Cloudy thick Rime and Raw Cold Breezes NW
Remainder of Hay carried to Loft.
Logs sorted for Building. Cellars pumped out.
Tradesmen at their respective occupations."

Oct. 18 Wednesday
" Clear sharp Weather Breezes SSW?
Much Ice driving in the River.
Had Yard Cleaned. &? Ware Houses Cleared to receive Goods from Launch House."

Oct. 19 Thursday
" Clear Weather AM inclined? to thaw - PM Overcast Wind as yesterday.
Had Cargo removed from Launch House to Ware Houses. Tradesmen at their respective occupations."

Oct. 20 Friday
" AM Clear Weather PM Overcast Cloudy SW Breezes
Men nearly as before."

Oct. 21 Saturday
" Clear with Sly Breezes
Mens Employ the same."

Oct. 22 Sunday
" Clear Mild Weather SSE Breezes
Sent Natives up the River to try for Game."

Oct. 23 Monday AM Overcast with NW Breezes PM Clear - Severe.
Men variously Employed - opening? Junk? &c?
Natives returned no Game Stirring."

Oct. 24 Tuesday
" Wind Weather & Mens Employ the same.
Clear?"

Oct. 25 Wednesday
" Nearly the same - very Severe.
Sorted out all the useful Timbers &c belonging to old Sloop."

Oct. 26 Thursday
" Cloudy AM with NE Breezes mild for the Season inclinable to Snow
PM Snow -
Mens Employ the same
Had Coal Hole Cleared."

Oct. 27 Friday
" Cloudy Much Rain fell during last night which continued during the day with Sleet & Snow alternately
Had Copper filled for Brewing.
Yard Cleared of Snow - Cellars pumped out.
Rest as before."

Oct. 28 Saturday
" Early part of day Snow afterwards Sleet & Mizzling Rain Cloudy Dark Weather NNW Breezes
Men Employ nearly the same
Had Mens Cabbins Cleaned & fumigated."

Oct. 29 Sunday
" Cloudy Dark Weather with Light Snow. Mild for the Season NW Breezes - PM WSW Breezes.
A flight of Geese - & Ducks seen.
In the Evening two men came from Pennycutway Tent with fish."

Oct. 30 Monday
" Cloudy
Hunters of yesterday returned to their Tent.
Two Men framing Building
Two at Pit Saw.
Two Building Boat.
Two Making Sinnet.
Taylors at Work for Men.
Coopers making Sled.
Carpenters - Armourer variously Employed as are others.
Ducks seen today."

Oct. 31 Tuesday
" frosty Weather NW Breezes
Mens Employ nearly the same.
Had Coals removed into Coal House."

Nov. 1 1797 Wednesday
" wind & Weather nearly the same.
Since Mr Donald McKays arrival we have had frequent conversations respecting the mode pursued by the Canadians to carry on their extensive concerns in this Country. - His information is in my opinion of importance to the Honble Hudson Bay Company. - His remarks are judicious - much to the purpose - and shews an extensive knowledge of the subject - neither does his knowledge appear confined to theory only - his remarks and observations - shews much Judgement - which few beside those acquainted with the practical part of conducting businefs in this country could know.
As Mr McKay intends visiting England pr next Ship he proposes to lay these remarks before the Honble Committee - therefore it is needlefs for me to dwell on the subject. - I shall only remark, that during his Journey hither from Osnaburgh House - he met Ninety three Canoes Loaded with furs from the Northward Stations - Conducted by Canadians - all on pafsage to the Grand Portage - viz.

Mefs McKenzie &c - 4 Canoes - 22 Bundles Each ---Station unknown.
       Shaw &c --------26 do.----- 25 Bundles Ea. ------fm. the Saskachewan.
Mr Harrison --------- 6 do.------- 26 do. Ea. -------- Lake Burbon?
Mr McGillies?----- 14 Canoes - 27 Bundles ea. --- from Fort Dauphin.
[Blank]----------- 4 do.----- Suppose 24 Bundles Each - Unknown
Mr McTavish ------ 8 do. ---- 28 Bundles each - from Anabaska
Mr W. M Kay & Todd 6 do.----- 22 do. --------- Lake Winnipeg Jack River &c.
Mr McGilvery ---- 14 do. ---- 28 do.----------- Slave Lake
Mr Alex M Kay---- 8 do. -----24 do.----------- do.
[Blank]----------- 3 do. ----- Suppose 24 Each ----Station Unknown

There were several other Canoes that past which Mr Mckay did not see - In the above Canoe were 2302 Bundles, Each Bundle on an average contain at least 55 MB the whole amounting to 126, 610 MBeaver - Collected as it were from Natives who resort near Rivers and Lakes the Waters of which is discharged into Hayes, Nelson, and Churchill Rivers. Mr McKay tells me he did not see any of the Canadian Canoes from the Southern Settlements - & from what he learnt? he supposes to be about half as many more. admitting this to be the case - these enterprizing Traders collected this Season nearly 200000 MB from the Territories of the Hudson Bay Company.
When tis considered the many disadvantages the Canadian Proprietors labour under, the Long distance they have to convey their Goods - into the interior Country - Tis? astonishing with what alacrity? they carry businefs? - and I am certain if vigorous measures were to be pursued by the Honble Company's Servants much might be done from this quarter - And I will be bold to say had those plans which I recommended Several years ago been adopted - the Canadians would not at this time have had that sway in this Country they now have. - The Canadians themselves are well aware what businefs might be done from this place - they take every advantage to remove? us - their attempts to draw off every useful & enterprizing Officer from this Service - which have been accomplished by the bribes which they have of late given to those in this Employ - (I mean the Surgeons who have been Stationed Inland 20 £ pr Annum) has in a great measure accomplished their wish - by these they have gained a manifest superiority over the Company. - by their having been acquainted with all our transactions - and now openly ridicule us - for our inactivity."

Nov. 2 Thursday
" Wind Weather & mens Employ the same.
Ducks seen in the River."
[In the margin "Killed 2 Hogs"]

Nov. 3 Friday
" Wind Weather & mens Employ the same. AM Cloudy with light drifting snow - PM Clear very Severe - River full of heavy Ice-
Ducks seen near the launch going up the River with Tide."

Nov. 4 Saturday
" Very Severe part Clear part Cloudy with NW Breezes
Had Cellars Cleared of Water
Summer Doors Chaulked up-
Rest of Men as before."

Nov. 5 Sunday
" Wind & Weather nearly the same
Ducks seen in the River - Killed one.
River upwards froze over - Near four Mile Gully."

Nov. 6 Monday
" Severe Weather with NW Breezes
Two Men building Boat
Two Sawrying? Stuff
Two framing building
Coopers making Sleds
Taylors at Work for Men
Two in Distillery
Armourer Stocking Guns
Two Making Sinnet
Rest Variously Employed."

Nov. 7 Tuesday
" Light Airs Wly part Clear part Cloudy
This morning the River Ice abreast the fort set fast very rough - A large Sheet of open Water above and River below Sloops Creek Clear of Ice.-
Mens Employ as before."

Nov. 8 Wednesday
" fresh Breezes WNW - Early AM Cloudy with light Snow - PM - Clear.
Sent three Indians to Crofs Creek Hunting Tent with Cloathing for Hunters.
Men nearly the same."
[in the margin "Killed 2 Hogs"]

Nov. 9 Thursday
" Wind the Same - Clear & Severe.
The Natives sent acrofs the River yesterday returned accompanied by one of the Hunters with a few Partridges Rabbits & fish - they inform - that Game is very scarse."
[In the margin "Killed 3 Hogs - French Creek 180 lbs fish 15 Rabbits 40 Partridges"]

Nov. 10 Friday
" SSE Breezes Clear & Severe.
Mens Employ the same"
[In the margin "Killed 5 Hogs"]

Nov. 11 Saturday
" Wly Breezes - AM Cloudy with drifting Snow PM overcast.
Sent two Natives to Crofs Creek to take a Beaver House and two up this Island to look for Game the latter returned in the Evening with the flesh of one Deer. - Mr Howse & T? Colen accompanied the former.
Had Victualling Hole cut in the River Ice & Salt Meat put therein to freshen.
Eight men came from the Woods."

Nov. 12 Sunday
" Thick drifting Snow - fresh Gales NE towards Evening Strong Gales.
Weather too bad for any person to leave the factory."

Nov. 13 Monday
" Gale Continued very violent all night - towards Morning it became more moderate - yet blowing strong with thick drift - in the afternoon it abated & became Clear.
The Wooders of Saturday returned to their Tent - All hands variously employed in House.
Sent two Natives to Crofs Creek Tent with Snow Shoes for Mr Howse & party - who returned. Native brought one Beaver & one Porcupine."
[In the margin "Ometick 1 Beaver 1 Porcupine - Killed 4 Hogs"]

Nov. 14 Tuesday
" Clear & Severe Breezes NW
Tradesmen at their respective occupations
rest variously Employed
1 W Fox Mr J Sutherland."

Nov. 15 Wednesday
" Clear & fine SW Breezes
Mens Employ as before
Sent Indians to examine a few Beaver Houses in french Creek Mr Howse & T Colen accompanied them."

Nov. 16 Thursday
" Cloudy SW Breezes
Mens Employ the same -
Kill a Bull - 544 lbs -
Mr James Sutherland 1 W & 1 Griz Fox the latter out of Season
Mr James Tate 2 White foxes."

Nov. 17 Friday
" Cloudy Weather Variable Breezes from ENE to N
Mens Employ the same - Natives returned unsuccefsful."

Nov. 18 Saturday
" Cloudy Raw Cold NW Breezes
Men as before.
One Man came from Crofs Creek Tent with a few fish and Rabbits."
[In the margin " ? White Foxes Crofs Creek ? Red do. ? lbs fish ? Partridges ? Rab't?"]

Nov. 19 Sunday
" Cloudy & Severe WSW Breezes - Ther. -32
All the Invalid Natives Pitched away to the Woods where fire Wood is more plentiful than it is around the fort.
The Hunter of yesterday went away.
2 Whitefoxes Mr James Sutherland."

Nov. 20 Monday
" Clear & Severe SW Breezes
Mens Employ nearly as last Week
In the Evening two Men came from Pennycutway* Tent with a few fish
3 foxes - Crofs Creek
1 Rab. Mr McKay"
[In the margin " *90 lbs fish 36 lbs left at Woods"]

Nov. 21 Tuesday
" Wind Weather & Mens Employ the same
Sent Mr Tate to the Wooders Tent to examine Work done - Hunter returned to his Teny.
Finished Distilling High Spirits for the Season. had Worm Tub & Liquor back discharged & Utensils thoroughly Cleaned.
Mr Tate 1 X fox
Mr Sutherland 1 White fox."

Nov. 22 Wednesday
" Light Snow - Cloudy NW Breezes - Men as before
Mr McKay 1 Whitefox
Mr Tate returned from the Woods reports favorable of Work done. Had Distill House Cleaned."

Nov. 23 Thursday
" Thursday Clear & fine Breezes W by S
Men as before paid a visit to Invalids."

Nov. 24 Friday
" Wind Weather & Mens Employ nearly the same
Mr Howse set off to Ten Shilling Creek to hunt for a few days.
1 Beaver Wilks - 5 Partridges
1 do. Ometick
1 do. Iammahoggan
Tommy - 8 Partridges
George - 4 do."

Nov. 25 Saturday
" Cloudy NW Breezes
Had Victualling Hole opened - Men nearly the same. One Man came from Crofs Creek Tent - as did two from Penny Cutway - and four from the Woods."
[In the margin "Crofs Creek - 40 Partridges 10 Rabbits 78 lbs fish 19 W. Foxes 1 Dam? Red - Pennycutway 53 White foxes 30 lbs fish 36 left at Woods 72 lbs Venison - Mr Hutchinson 4 W. Foxes"]

Nov. 26 Sunday
" Wly Breezes Clear & Severe
The Hunters & Wooders of yesterday returned to their respective Tents.
Invalids came for Provisions.
Sent off Natives to Hunt & Trap small furs."

Nov. 27 Monday
" Cloudy Wly Breezes
Men Employed nearly as last Week. except Smith & one Man making falling Hatchets for Inland."

Nov. 28 Tuesday
" Wind & Mens Employ nearly the same. Clear Weather."

Nov. 29 Wednesday
" Cloudy & Mild Variable Breezes
Mens Employ the same
Set off to visit the Hunters to the Eastward.
Partridges remarkably scarse - not suff't Killed this Season to serve one days allowance to the Men."
[In the margin "Crofs Creek 18 White foxes
1 Griz Fox Mr Sutherland 1 Red. do."]

Nov. 30 Thursday
" Cloudy with light Snow - Wly Breezes
Mens Employ the same-
Returned to the fort.
Mr James Sutherland 1 Grizzle fox Stagged
1 Red do.
X Creek Tent - 18 White foxes"

Dec. 1 Friday 1797
" Cloudy - more Snow fell during last night than has fallen since the commencement of this Season.
Mens Employ nearly the same except two Clearing Snow out from the Works & two Edging Boards for Building. Sent one to X Creek Tent with a few Necefsaries -Three Natives came in with a few Fox Skins & Partridges &c &c fitted them out to trap Small furs.
Nly Light Breezes the whole day remarkably mild with Light Snow - About noon moist sleet fell afterwards fleaky Snow - The Ther. this day nearly at the point of freezing."
[In the margin " Wilks 3 W Foxes 5 Partridges
Iammahoggan ---------- 2 do.---6 do. 2 Porcupines.
Ometick 1 Porcupine
George 1 do."]

Dec. 2 Saturday
" Remarkably mild for the Season - Light Breezes NE Cloudy with light Snow. Mens Employ the same.
One Man came from Crofs Creek Tent as did Wm Manson & four from the Woods."
[In the margin " X Creek - 65 Partridges 11 Rabbits 14 lbs fish. 2 White foxes Mr Tate. 1 Martin Mr Sutherland."]

Dec. 3 Sunday
" Cloudy Weather with Snow. Light Breezes NE
Hunter & Wooders returned to their respective Tents. Indian Woman brought fox skins & few ? Beaver."

Dec. 4 Monday
" Cloudy drifting Weather - at times flights of Snow and fresh Breezes Nly.
Smith & Afsistant making Hatchets for Inland
Coopers making Rundlets for do.
Two Building Boat for do.
One Making Sinnet - & 2 foxes? for do.
Taylors at Work for Men.
Two at the Pit Saw - Carpenters preparing Boards for Building
Eight Men at Hunting Tents - Twelve at the Woods. rest variously Employed."

Dec. 5 Tuesday
" Clear Weather with Wly Breezes.
Men Employed as before - except two wheeling Snow from the Works to the Banks edge."

Dec. 6 Wednesday
" Cloudy at times light Snow - Gentle Breezes NE.
Men nearly the same
Two men came from Pennycutway Tent."
[In the margin "34 lbs fish 36 lbs left at Woods. 60 Partridges 20 Rabbits 45 W. Foxes 1 Blue do. 1 Red do."]

Dec. 7 Thursday
" AM Cloudy afterwards Clear with NW Breezes
Two Brewing - Hunters returned to their Tent. One Making New Sled - rest as before."

Dec. 8 Friday
" Wind Weather & Mens Employ the same. Invalids came for Provisions."
[In the margin " 1 W Fox G. Harvey"]

Dec. 9 Saturday
" Wind Weather & Mens Employ nearly the same. One Man came from Crofs Creek & three from the Woods."
[In the margin " X Creek 62 lbs fish 80 Partridges 7 White foxes Mr Hutchinson 4 White Foxes"]

Dec. 10 Sunday
" Light Breezes SW part Clear part Cloudy
The Hunters & Wooders of yesterday returned to their respective Tents."

Dec. 11 Monday
" Cloudy with Ely Breezes In the Evening Wind vered SSW
Mens Employ nearly as last Monday.
Two Men came from Pennycutway Tent with a few fish &c.
Mr Tate set off to build a few Traps & sleep out. Home as rendered uncomfortable to the Officers by Mr Mckays imperious behaviour."
[In the margin " Pennycutway 143 lbs fish, 32 White foxes, 1 Blue do., 1 Red do., 23 Prime Martins 27, Com. do., Mr Tate 1 Red fox."]

Dec. 12 Tuesday
" Cloudy with NE Breezes - Light Snow early?
Mens Employ nearly the same - Hunters returned to their Tent. Mr Tate returned - Mr Howse requested leave to visit Mr Whitford - as did Mr McKay to visit Severn."

Dec. 13 Wednesday
" Thick Rime this morning Raw Cold - afterwards Hazy NW Breezes - & variable Nly.
Mens Employ nearly the same.
J. Dibble went to the Woods."

Dec. 14 Thursday
" Clear Severe Weather with SW Breezes
Mens Employ the same
Sent T Colen to Crofs Creek."

Dec. 15 Friday
" Clear fine Weather SSW Light Breezes
Mens Employ the same."

Dec. 16 Saturday
" Cloudy Light Airs variable
Mens Employ nearly the same.
Two Men came from Crofs Creek
Men came from the Woods with their Bedding leaving two there to take care of the Tent and things left.
Indians brought a few Partridges."
[In the margin -
" Iammahoggan 20 Partridges
Ometick 10 do.
Wilks 10 do.
Tommy 20 do
Crofs Creek
Foxes White 4
Partridges No. 80
Fish lbs 56
Wooders?
Magnus? Meur? 2 W Foxes."]

Dec. 17 Sunday
" fresh Breezes WNW Severe
Early this morning Mr Howse set off to Gordon House. Mr Ward & Hunter returned to their Tent."

Dec. 18 Monday
" Severe Weather with Breezes SSW Clear Ther. -33
Two Men Brewing - Tradesmen as last Week
Labourers variously Employed."

Dec. 19 Tuesday
" Thick Rime early AM Afterwards Hazy NW Breezes
Tradesmen as before Labourers cutting fire Wood for the Hollidays.
One Man came from Pennycutway - Wm Smith was also coming to the fort but on his meeting Mr Howse at Rainbow Island returned with him."
[In the margin -
"Pennycutway
68 lbs fish
100 Partridges
10 Com. Martins
5 Prime do."]

Dec. 20 Wednesday
" AM Cloudy with Breezes NNW Hazy
Mens Employ nearly the same - The Hunter of yesterday returned to his Tent."

Dec. 21 Thursday
" Cloudy thick Weather with NW Brezes
Mens Employ as yesterday
Late in the Evening three Natives arrived with Sleds loaded with Small furs. afterwards set off to the Invalid Tent - These Indians complain very much on the bad quality of their Hatchets which they purchased last fall - they are so brittle and break to pieces like Ice - For want of these useful Articles prevented their Trapping having only one among the whole party."
[In the margin " Kitaway - Son & Deaf Brother Tishawayock 51 Beaver in Martins Foxes &c &c"]

Dec. 22 Friday
" Clear with NW Breezes which vered Wly towards Evening
Mens Employ the same
Natives came to the fort & Slept?"

Dec. 23 Saturday
" Cloudy with WSW Breezes. Drift.
Mens Employ nearly the same - Hay removed to Loft.
Hunters came home from their Stations with Tent & bedding
Invalids came for Provisions - and Traded with Natives who went to their Tent."
[In the margin -
" X Creek Tent 44 Rab. Skins
3 foxes White foxes
37 P.Martins
38 Com. do.
60 partridges
6 Rabbits
26 lbs fish
Pennycutway Tent
1 P. Martin
2 C. do.
5 W. Foxes
1 Wolverine
64 lbs fish
40 Partridges
Oomoshim?
3 P. Martins
8 Com. do
20 Rab. Skins"]

Dec. 24 Sunday
" Clear Weather with NW Breezes
Indians finished Trade - trusted debt and they set off."

Dec. 25 Monday
" Wind & Weather nearly the same Severe.
Divine Service."

Dec. 26 Tuesday
" Wly Breezes Clear Men at their holliday diversions."

Dec. 27 Wednesday
" SSW Breezes Clear - Men the same
Prepared Letters - packed Goods and closed the Packet for Gordon House."

Dec. 28 Thursday
" NW Breezes part Clear part Cloudy - Men the same.
Three Indians set off with Goods and Packet to Gordon House."

Dec. 29 Friday
" Clear Weather Light Breezes NNW
Men Employed Setting Beacons acrofs the River."
[In the margin -
" X Creek hunters
2 Prime Martins
2 Com. do.
1 White fox
1 do. Mr Tate."]

Dec. 30 Saturday
" Clear Weather with S Breezes"
[In the margin " 2 P.Martins T. Umferville"]

Dec. 31 Sunday
" Overcast with SW Breezes."

Jan. 1 Monday 1798
" Thick Rime Cloudy & Calm
Men finished their Holliday diversions."

Jan. 2 Tuesday
" Light Airs SSW - Thick Rime AM afterwards Clear.
Twenty Eight Men preparing to leave the Fort. Rest variously Employed."

Jan. 3 Wednesday
" AM Cloudy with light Snow. PM Clear - Breezes NNW
Sent Eighteen Men to the woods with large Sled to Haul fire Wood to the Bank in readinefs for Rafting in Summer. - also four to the Eastward to Tent and Hunt - and four with an Indian youth acrofs Nelson River.
Two Making Large Sled - two at the Pit Saw Two Taylors Making Indian Cloathing - Two Coopers & Armourer work for Inland - rest variously Employed."

Jan. 4 Thursday
" Light Airs NW Clear PM Variable Light Airs
Mens Employ the same."
[In the margin " Geo Harvey 1 W. Fox"]

Jan. 5 Friday
" Variable Light Airs - Clear Weather Mens Employ the same."

Jan. 6 Saturday
" Light Breezes Sly Cloudy
Victualling hole opened - Rest as before
Four Men came from the Woods for Provisions - as did the Invalid Natives."
[In the margin " Geo Harvey 1 W Fox"]

Jan. 7 Sunday
" Light Breezes Variable snow & Cloudy
Wooders returned to their Tent."

Jan. 8 Monday
" Overcast Light Breezes NW
Sent two Men to examine Martin Traps &c at Crofs & French Creek
Four Men at the Pit Saw. - Coopers preparing Rundlets for Inland - Taylors making Cloaths for Trade
Eighteen at the Woods - Nine at Hunting Tents - Rest variously Employed."

Jan. 9 Tuesday
" Light Breezes NNE at times Squals of Wind part Clear part Cloudy
Men as before."
[In the margin "Mr Tate 1 W Fox"]

Jan. 10 Wednesday
" Cloudy Variable Breezes from SSW to NW
The men sent on Monday to examine Traps returned - rest as before."
[In the margin -
"G. Harvey & Peter Goudrie?
5 Com. Martins
3 P. do
1 W Fox"]

Jan. 11 Thursday
" Variable Breezes almost ro' the Compafs - AM Clear PM Cloudy
Mens Employ the same."
[In the margin " Geo. Harvey 1 W Fox"]

Jan. 12 Friday
" Cloudy with Ely Breezes Light Snow -
Men the same."
[In the margin " Mr Tate 1 W Fox"]

Jan. 13 Saturday
" Fresh Breezes Nly Cloudy & thick drift
This morning the Natives sent to Gordon House the 27 Ult. returned with a few Bundles of small Furs -
Two Men came from Nelson Tent - and Four from the Woods - Rest as before."
[In the margin -
" Nelson River Tent
120 Partridges
Geo Harvey 1 Fox White
James Hay 1 do. do."]

Jan. 14 Sunday
" Clear Sharp Weather SW Breezes
Hunters and Wooders returned to their Tent - & one man came from the Eastward Tent. - The Hunters complain of the great scarsity of Game."
[In the margin -
" Eastward Hunters
90 Partridges
6 W. Foxes "]

Jan. 15 Monday
" SW Breezes AM - Overcast PM almost Calm
Hunter of yesterday returned to his Tent - and Men employed as last Week"

Jan. 16 Tuesday
" Cloudy thick Weather Nly Breezes & Drift
Men as before. - Two Indians arrived with a little Green Venison."
[In the margin " Ometick - 2 Deer." His name is also spelled "Ometchuck"]

Jan. 17 Wednesday
" Severe Cold. NW Breezes Clear - Men the same."
[In the margin " Mr Tate 1 W Fox T. Colen 1 do."]

Jan. 18 Thursday
" fresh Gales SW Cloudy with thick Drift.
Sent three to the back of the Island for Sleds left by Natives last Spring. Rest as before."
[In the margin" Geo Harvey 2 W Foxes."]

Jan. 19 Friday
" Fresh Breezes Wly Drifting thick Weather
Mens Employ nearly the same - Late in the Evening two Men came from Nelson River Tent - J Hendry left by his Companions - Sent people for him."
[In the margin "1 W Fox Mr J Sutherland 120 Partridges Nelson Tent."]

Jan. 20 Saturday
" Fresh Gales NW thick drift AM Cloudy PM Clear and lefs Wind.
Too bad Weather for Hunters to Crofs Nelson River. Four Men came from the Woods. rest as before. - Natives came for Provisions."

Jan. 21 Sunday
" fresh Breezes SW Clear
Wooders and Hunter returned to their respective Tents. One Man came from the Eastward - Game so scarse the Hunters find a difficulty to provide for their own keep."
[In the margin -
"Eastward Tent 10 W Foxes
76 Partridges
Mr Tate 1 Blue fox
1 W do.
Ometick 2 P Martins."]

Jan. 22 Monday
" Fresh Breezes Wly Clear & Severe. Ther. -40 below the Cypher
The Hunter of yesterday returned to his Tent - Two Brewing. Taylors making Indian Cloathing - Carpenters preparing Boards for new building - Cooper making Rundlets for Inland - Armourer making Gun Worms for Do. - Two at the Pit Saw - Rest variously Employed."

Jan. 23 Tuesday
" Early AM Cloudy afterwards Clear variable Light Breezes from SSW to E
Sent two Men to examine Martin Traps at Crofs & French Creek - rest as before - except Brewers who are variously Employed."
[In the margin
"1 W Fox Mr Tate
2 do Stephen?, T. Colen."]

Jan. 24 Wednesday
" Clear Weather with variable Light Breezes
Sent Mefs Sutherland & Tate to the Woods to examine Work done and look at some timber discovered by Natives near twenty Mile Creek. The Natives accompanied them. Mens Employ as before."

Jan. 25 Thursday
" Severe Cold Ther. -45 below the Cypher - Wly Breezes AM Thick Rime - afterwards Clear
The men sent to look at Traps on Tuesday returned inform me that a wolverine had been around the range and destroyed the whole & eaten all the animals taken in them. Men the same."
[In the margin "1 P Martin 2 Com. do. 1 W Fox P. Goudie & G Harvey."]

Jan. 26 Friday
" SSWfresh Gales Hazy & thick Drift
Mens Employ the same. - Mefs Sutherland & Tate returned from the woods report favorable of Work done - but have been unsuccefsful with respect to finding Timber - the quantity reported by Natives only amounts to 14 Pieces and those scattered at a distant from each other.
Two Men came from Nelson River Tent - complain very much of the scarsity of Game."
[In the margin "120 Partridges Nelson Hunters."]

Jan. 27 Saturday
" Mild for the Season Light Breezes Wly & variable to SE.
The Hunters returned to their Tent - Four came from the Woods. - Mens Employ the same."
[In the margin -
" 1 White fox P Goudie & G H
31 Partridges Ometick
15 Partridges Iammahoggon
14 Partridges Iammahoggon & Mr Tate
13 Wilks."]

Jan. 28 Sunday
" Weather as yesterday fresh Breezes Sly
Wooders returned to their Tent - Ordered part to bring home their bedding next Saturday."

Jan. 29 Monday
" AM Cloudy at times flights of thick Snow very Mild with variable Breezes - PM Clear with Breezes WSW.
One man came from the Eastward Tent - Game continues remarkably scarse - Six hunting from the House who travelled over a large track of Ground - and only one Partridge killed among the whole - Rest of Men Employed nearly as last Week."
[In the margin " Eastward Hunters 14 W Foxes 70 Partridges."]

Jan. 30 Tuesday
" Breezes WSW Clear - remarkably mild for the Season
Mens Employ the same - The Hunter returned to his Tent."

Jan. 31 Wednesday
" Overcast variable Breezes & Mild towards Evening Strong Gales Sly
Mens Employ the same."
[In the margin "Mr Ward 1 W Fox."]

Feb. 1 Thursday 1798
" Mens Employ nearly the same
Remarkable Mild for the Season - Snow thawed from the Leads and much Water run down the Spouts - blowing a Fresh Gale WSW - till 3 PM when the Ther. stood at +42. at this time the wind changed suddenly to the NW Quarter blowing strong when the Ther. rapidly fell to 8 below the Cypher in the Evening.
All hands that could use a Gun were out this day not a single Bird Killed."

Feb. 2 Friday
" AM Overcast PM Clear - Breezes NW
Mens Employ nearly the same - Two Men came from Nelson Hunting Tent."
[In the margin "120 Partridges Nelson Tent"]

Feb. 3 Saturday
" Nly Breezes - Cloudy - PM Light Snow
Hunters returned to their Tent - Nine Men came from the Woods five of whom brought home their Bedding - Rest nearly as before."
[In the margin -
" Native 9 Pair Snow Shoes Netted
Mr Tate 2 W Foxes & 1 Red
G Harvey 2 W Foxes
J Dibble 1 do.
Ometick ....48 Partridges
Iammahoggon 20 do.
Wilks....... 30 do."]

Feb. 4 Sunday
" Early AM Cloudy with drifting Snow - PM Clear Breezes NW
Four of Wooders returned to their Tent - The others who brought home their bedding yesterday remain to afsist forwarding factory duties."

Feb.5 Monday
" Cloudy with Snow AM - variable Light Breezes from SSW to NW - It cleared in the afternoon.
Two Men building boat - Two Weatherboarding fur Ware House - Two at the Pit Saw - One making Sinnet. three making Rundlets - One making Doors - Taylors making Indian Cloathing, Armourer Stocking Hunting Guns - Thirteen at the Woods - Ten at diff't Hunting Tents rest variously Employed.
One Man came from the Eastward Tent with a few Partridges."
[In the margin -
" 1 Wolf Mr Ja Tate
Eastward Tent 68 Partridges
8 White foxes
1 Blue do.
1 Red do."]

Feb. 6 Tuesday
" Overcast fresh Breezes NW drifting
Hunter of yesterday returned to his Tent - Two Men set off to look at Martin Traps &c - Rest as before."

Feb. 7 Wednesday
" fresh Breezes NW Clear - Men sent yesterday to look at Traps returned this Evening - Rest as before."
[In the margin -
" George Harvey & P Goudie
2 White foxes
1 Grizzle do.
4 prime Martins
1 Com. do.
1 White fox Mr Sutherland."]

Feb. 8 Thursday
" Wind Weather and Mens Employ the same."
[In the margin -
" Iammahoggon 16 Part.
T Colen ... 9 do."]

Feb. 9 Friday
" AM Wind & Weather the same - PM fresh Breezes Nly
Mens Employ as before -
Two Men came from the Nelson Tent."
[In the margin-
" N. Tent
140 Partridges
2 Red Foxes
5 White Foxes
1 of the above W Foxes belonging to T. Umferville
1 do. -------------------------- O'Noshim?"]

Feb. 10 Saturday
" Clear Weather with Nly Breezes
Hunters of yesterday returned to their Tent - Three came from the Woods for Provisions as did Invalid Natives."
[In the margin -
" 1 W Fox James Hay
1 do. Stephen Bronwin?
Ometick 30 Partridges
1 Beaver
Wilks 27 Partridges
1 Beaver."]

Feb. 11 Sunday
" Clear Severe Weather Ther. -42 below Cypher. Breezes SW
Wooders returned to their Tent - Mr McKay came up to dinner this day - having absented himself from the Mefs since last Monday."

Feb. 12 Monday
" Variable Breezes from SW to NW Overcast
Mens Employ nearly as last Week. One Man came from the Eastward Tents - Fitted out Mr Don'd McKay with every thing he required - as he intends leaving the factory to morrow."
[In the margin -
" Eastw'd Tent
90 Partridges
10 W Foxes
22 P Martins
22 C. do.
1 W Fox James Dibble
1 W Fox Mr James Sutherland."]

Feb. 13 Tuesday
" Fine Clear Weather with Light Breezes Wly.
Hunter of yesterday returned to his Tent - And about 8 OClock AM Mr McKay left the factory - and set off towards the Northward - Sent two Men to afsist hauling his Sleds - Whether he intends visiting Churchill or not it is totally out of my power to say - as he positively refused taking any Letters to that Settlement. In the Evening the men who accompanied Mr McKay returned having conveyed his Sleds so far as the high Bank on this side of Old Flambro House. Rest of Men as before."

Feb. 14 Wednesday
" AM fine Clear & Severe - PM Thick drift. WNW Breezes.
Mens Employ as on Monday."
[In the margin " 1 W Fox Mr Tate."]

Feb. 15 Thursday
" fresh Gales NW with drift - Overcast
Mens Employ nearly the same
Began flooring Fur shed."
[In the margin -
" 1 W Fox G. Harvey
1 do. Mr Tate."]

Feb. 16 Friday
" Clear Weather Variable Breezes from W to NW
Mens Employ nearly the same. - Two Men came from Nelson Tent - they tell me that they have not seen any thing of Mr McKay or family."
[In the margin -
" N. Tent
140 Partridges
2 W Foxes
1 R. do.
G.H. & P.Goudie 1 P. Martin."]

Feb. 17 Saturday
" Clear and fine Light Breezes NW
Hunters of yesterday returned to their Tent - gave them Instructions to search for Mr McKay and afford him afsistance - Three Men came from the Woods for Provisions - as did Invalids - Had Victualling Hole opened - Rest of men as before."
[in the margin -
" 1 Red fox T Colen from Mr McKay's Guns
2 W Foxes G Harvey & PG.
Iammahoggon 50 Partridges
Ometick ---45 do.
Wilks --- 23 do."]

Feb. 18 Sunday
" Variable Light Airs from SW to NNW Overcast - PM Cloudy and Light Snow
Wooders returned to their Tent."
[In the margin - "Sent Cooper for Men's Eyes at the Woods."]

Feb. 19 Monday
" Clear fine Weather with Lt Airs NW by N
One Man came from the Eastward Tents Mens Employ nearly as last Week."
[In the margin -
" Eastward Tent
90 Partridges
1 Wolverine
3 W Foxes
1 W Fox Geo Harvey."]

Feb. 20 Tuesday
" AM Light Airs Nly Cloudy - PM Fresh Breezes NE with Light Snow and drift.
Hunter of yesterday returned to his Tent - One in Sick list Rest as before."
[In the margin -
" 2 Crofs Foxes Mr J Tate
1 W. Geo Harvey."]

Feb. 21 Wednesday
" Breezes NE Light Snow Cloudy
Mens Employ and Sick the same."

Feb. 22 Thursday
" AM Light Snow Cloudy PM Clear variable Breezes from NW to N
Mens Employ nearly the same - Sick on duty. - Sent two Men to look after Traps at French & Crofs Creek."
[In the margin "Mr J Sutherland 1 W Fox 1 Red."]

Feb. 23 Friday
" AM Thick Rime and Overcast - PM Clear Breezes NE
Mens Employ the same - Two Men came from Nelson Tent brought Letter from Mr McKay who reached their Tent last Sunday."
[In the margin -
" G Harvey & P.G.
2 P Martins
2 C. do.
1 Mink
Eastward Tent
140 Partridges
4 White Foxes
1 Crofs Fox."]

Feb. 24 Saturday
" Fresh Breezes NE Early part of day Overcast - Afterwards Clear
Hunters of yesterday returned to their Tent - four Men came from the Woods for Provisions - as did Invalid Natives. Rest of Men as before."
[In the margin "3 W Foxes Mag. Hutchinson."]

Feb. 25 Sunday
" AM Thick Rime - Light Airs Ely
Wooders returned to their Tent - as they have hauled out suff't fire Wood for two Winters supply. gave Instructions for their cutting down some in readinefs for sprigging next fall."

Feb. 26 Monday
" Light Airs Nly Thick Rime and Cloudy
One Man came from the Eastward Tent - Two Men at the Pit Saw - Cooper making Rundlets for Inland - One Making Sinnet and two building Boat for Do. Taylors making Indian Cloathing - Armourer making Awl Blades - Carpenters finishing Fur Shed. one wheeling Snow from the Works to the Banks Edge. Thirteen Men at the Woods Ten at Hunting Tents Rest variously Employed."
[In the Margin -
" Eastward Tent
90 Partridges
1 W Fox
1 Wolverine."]

Feb. 27 Tuesday
" Light Breezes Nly Cloudy
Hunter of yesterday returned to his Tent - Men as before."

Feb. 28 Wednesday
" AM Cloudy Light Breezes NW - PM variable Breezes from W to S Clear - Men as before."

Mar. 1 Thursday 1798
" AM Cloudy with Wly Breezes PM wind vered to the N Light Snow and Cloudy
Mens Employ the same."

Mar. 2 Friday
" AM Clear sharp weather with variable Breezes from WNW to SW. Cloudy PM towards Evening Strong Gale NW
Two Brewing - Rest as before. Two Men came from Nelson Tent brought Letters from Mr McKay who is removed to the Northward of Sam's Creek."
[In the margin -
" Nelson Tent
140 Partridges
1 Crofs Fox
5 White do.
1 Crofs Fox Peter Goudie G.H.
2 of the White foxes from Nelson Tent belongs to T Umferville & O'Noshim?"]

Mar. 3 Saturday
" Gale Continues with thick Drift
Too bad Weather for Hunters to Crofs Nelson River. Five Men came from the Woods two of whom brought home their bedding. Invalids came for Provisions."
[In the margin -
40 Partridges Iammahoggon
40 do. Omiteck
24 Wilks."]

Mar. 4 Sunday
" Gale Continued until about noon - when it became moderate and Clear - blowing fresh from the NW quarter. Too bad Weather for Hunters to Crofs Nelson River. Three of the Wooders returned to their Tent - The other two remain to afsist in Factory duties.
An Englishman and an Indian Youth arrived with Letters from Mr Whitford who aquaints me that the Canadians have errected two Settlements within a short distance of Gordon House which has cut off all the Indians from visiting him this Winter."
[In the margin " 3 Pair Snow Shoes Indians"]

Mar. 5 Monday
" Clear & Severe - Ther. -40 below the Cypher W Breezes
Nelson Hunters returned to their Tent - Victualling Hole opened - rest as last Week."

Mar. 6 Tuesday
" AM Clear PM Cloudy and Severe Ther. -44 Variable Breezes from W to NW
Men employ the same except those opening Victualling Hole - employed Grinding Oatmeal."

Mar. 7 Wednesday
" AM Clear PM Cloudy with thick drift. Breezes NW Severe Ther. -38
Men as before - One Man came from the Eastward Tent."
[In the margin -
" Eastw'd Tent
100 Partridges
1 Grizzle Fox
3 White. do."]

Mar. 8 Thursday
" Clear & Severe Ther. -45 Breezes NW
Hunter of yesterday returned to his Tent - Men as before."

Mar. 9 Friday
" Clear & Severe Ther. -40 Wly Breezes
Those who arrived with Packet from Gordon House the 4th Instant set off on their return. - Mens Employ nearly the same."
[In the margin - "1 Red Fox Mr Tate."]

Mar. 10 Saturday
" Clear Weather AM - Cloudy PM Breezes SW
Mens Employ the same - Two Men came from Nelson Tent - as did four from the Woods for Provisions. Invalids came for Provisions."
[In the margin -
" Nelson Tent
110 Partridges
5 W Foxes
1 Wolverine
1 W Fox P Goudie & G Harvey
1 W Fox T Colen
1 W Fox T umfervile."]

Mar. 11 Sunday
" Clear Weather with NW Breezes
Hunters and Wooders returned to their respective Tents - About Noon two Natives and their families arrived with Eight Sleds well loaded with Furs - &c - they afterwards set off to the Invalid Tent to pafs their Evening."
[In the margin "P Goudie 1 Wolf."]

Mar. 12 Monday
" Clear Weather with SW Breezes
Two Brewing Two Grinding Oatmeal - Two fitting up Tool & Fur Sheds two at Pit Saw two Building Boat - Taylors making Indian Cloathing Cooper making Rundlets - one Making Sinnet for Inland Armourer Joiner and afsistant preparing things for do. Ten at Hunting Tents - Eleven at Woods rest variously Employed - One came from the Eastward Tents."
[In the margin "Eastward Tent 3 White foxes 100 Partridges."]

Mar. 13 Tuesday
" Cloudy with Light Snow very Mild part of the day Thaw - variable Light Airs.
Hunter of yesterday returned to his Tent - Rest as before till noon -when they were employed Cleaning Cabins and House of Rime and Snow collected during Winter.
Natives of Sunday Traded & paid Debts
In the afternoon an Englishman and Native arrived from Severn with a Packet."

Mar. 14 Wednesday
" Cloudy with thick Drift towards Evening Clear fresh Gales NW - Mens Employ as on Monday
Natives of Sunday set off. They frequently requested permifsion to come in early in spring to Kill Geese - but this I positively refused - and forbid them to come to York until the Summer - as they are Tenting with or near part of Severn Home Guards - And notwithstanding our distrefs for provisions I have declined the afsistance of these Indians to prevent those from Severn from Coming hither.
In the Evening one of the Lads belonging to the Natives who set off to day returned in order to stay at the factory he says a strain in his back prevents his walking but I look upon it as a finese of the other Indians to leave the Lad that they might have the excuse to come here in the Spring as the Youth belongs to Severn Home Guards - Sent two people after those who sent the youth back & to Wait the arrival of him to morrow or until they hear from me."

Mar. 15 Thursday
" Fresh Gales NW by W with drifting Snow
Early this morning sent off two people with the Lad who returned last night after the Indians mentioned yesterday - I am fully convinced that the Lad was sent to the factory for the purpose before mentioned from? the reception these? met who took him - they appeared very much disatisfied
Men as before. James Monkman one of the Severn Packet men went to the Wooders Tent with Letters."

Mar. 16 Friday
" Fresh Gales NW Drifting AM - more Clear PM
Mens Employ the same."
[In the margin -
" P Goudie G Harvey
1 P Martin
4 C. do.
2 Minks."]

Mar. 17 Saturday
" AM Overcast with WNW Breezes
PM Clear - with SW Breezes - Mild
Men as before - Three came from the woods as did two from Nelson Tent. - The latter brought Letters from Mr McKay who is still Tenting near Sams Creek."
[in the margin -
" Nelson Tent
110 Partridges
5 W Foxes
Mr J Tate
2 W Foxes
1 X do.
1 Griz do."]

Mar. 18 Sunday
" Clear mild Weather with SW fresh Breezes
As Mr Don'd McKay exprefsed a desire from the day of his arrival to visit Severn - but refused to go there with Indians - and an Opportunity now offering of his accompaning an Englishman - Dispatched a man to apprize him thereof - and have detained the Packet men until I hear his answer. - Wooders returned to their Tents - Gave orders for them to bring home their Things next Saturday."

Mar. 19 Monday
" AM Clear with SW Breezes. PM Cloudy with Nly Breezes
Victualling Hole opened - Men not employed on this duty as last Week - One Man came from the Eastward Tent. Sent Natives to the fourteens to hunt for Game."
[In the margin -
" 1 Fox G Harvey
100 Partridges Eastw'd Tent."]

Mar. 20 Tuesday
" AM Variable Breezes from W to S Cloudy middle part of day Clear towards Evening Overcast
Hunter of yesterday returned to his Tent. Mens Employ nearly as last Week - The man sent to Mr McKay on Sunday returned with a Letter from that Gentleman filled with Scurility and abuse. - Engaged an Indian Youth to accompany him. - Indians returned from the fourteens River very few Partridges in that quarter."
[In the margin "Geo Harvey 1 W Fox."]

Mar. 21 Wednesday
" Early AM Overcast NW Breezes with thick Drift afterwards Clear towards Evening Light Airs NNE
Early this Morning the men who came from Severn with Packet set off on their return - Sent off the Indian Youth engaged yesterday to afsist Mr McKay to haul his things to Churchill - an Englishman accompanied him - Mens Employ nearly as before."

Mar. 22 Thursday
Light Breezes NE Clear - Men the same."

Mar. 23 Friday
" Cloudy mild Weather towards Evening Clear. Men the same
About Noon two Englishmen and two Natives arrived with Packet from Mr Cook - want of Ammunition occaisioned his sending people at this Season. he is stationed at Ta tas ka wah Sakahagan - up Nelson River about 1 Degree to the Southward of this place."
[In the margin -
" Geo Harvey 1 W Fox
T Colen 1 Co. Martin"]

Mar. 24 Saturday
" Wind & Weather nearly the same and Mens Employ the same. Thawing
All the men came from the Woods with Tent and bedding."

Mar. 25 Sunday
" Variable Breezes alround the Compafs - AM Cloudy with moist Snow. PM Clear with fresh Breezes NNW."

Mar. 26 Monday
" Fresh Gales NW Cloudy & drifting Snow Men from the woods picking Okum - Rest Employed nearly as last Week - Two Men came from Nelson Tent brought Letters from Mr Mckay filled with Abusive Language - and the only reason afsigned for such is - on account of my not indicating him to return - He has set off towards Churchill which is a fortunate circumstance for our peace - and we shall again I hope enjoy a little Comfort."
[In the margin -
" 100 Partridges Nelson Tent
40 do. Mr McKay"]

Mar. 27 Tuesday
" AM Light Breezes SSW Clear - PM Breezes SSW
Hunters of yesterday returned to their Tent - Packed Goods for Mr Cook - Closed the packet and had Sleds Loaded for Men setting off tomorrow - Those picking Oakum yesterday Employed wheeling Snow from Works to Banks Edge. - Rest as before."
[In the margin -
" E. Tent
100 Partridges
1 P Martin T Colen."]

Mar. 28 Wednesday
" Breezes NNW over Cast early AM afterwards Clear
Early this morning the men who came with Packet to Mr Cook set off on their return & the Hunter went to his Tent - Rest as yesterday."

Mar. 29 Thursday
" AM fresh Breezes Nly Clear - PM Breezes NE
All hands as before - Fitted out a family of Churchill Home Guard Natives (who returned here in the fall) and sent them to that Settlement. I have at last got clear of all the Indians who came here the Spring 1794 from Mr Stayner tho' I was obliged to force them to quit this place a few of YF home Guards their friends accompanied them."

Mar. 30 Friday
" Fresh Breezes NE Cloudy Raw Cold - Men the same
Invalids removed Tent to this Plantation."

Mar. 31 Saturday
" Wind Weather and Mens Employ the same.
Two Men came from Nelson Tent with a few Martin Skins &c."
[In the margin -
" Nelson Tent
36 P Martins
30 C. do.
4 W Foxes
1 Red do.
100 Part.
40 do. Mr McKay
Tommy & O'noshim?
19 P Martins
20 Com. do."]

Apr. 1 Sunday
" Breezes N by E Clear."

Apr. 2 Monday
" Fresh Gales Sly clear.
Two Men making Bags for Inland - two Cleaning Ware House rest as last Week - One Man came from the Eastward Tent."
[In the margin -
" Eastw'd Tent
45 Partridges
1 X fox
2 White do."]

Arp. 3 Tuesday
" Variable Breezes alround the Compafs AM Clear PM Overcast towards Evening Light Snow.
Mens Employ the same - Hunter returned to his Tent."

Apr. 4 Wednesday
" NE Breezes part Clear part Cloudy. Men as before."
[In the margin -
" Geo Harvey 3 C. Martins
1 P. do.

Boat taken off Stocks
£19. 11.   2 3/4 Labour
£21.   9.   0.    Provisions at ? pr day each - Liq. Lodging &c included.
_____________
£41. 0. 2 3/4"]

Apr. 5 Thursday
" Fresh Gales Ely overcast towards Evening Hail & Sleet.
Mens Employ the same."

Apr. 6 Friday
" Clear Mild Weather with variable Breezes from E to SW by W
No Duty. Service for the day performed."

Apr. 7 Saturday
" Cloudy Raw Cold with NW Breezes with Drifting Snow
Two Men came from Nelson Tent. Men as on Friday. Late in the Evening a Native arrived with a Sled Load with Small furs."
[In the margin " Nelson Tent 100 Partridges 2 W Foxes."]

Apr. 8 Sunday
" Saturday Much Snow fell during last night Cloudy - Cloudy with NW Breezes
Hunters returned to their Tent. Natives Intoxicated."

Apr. 9 Monday
" Cloudy - with Spirts of Snow. Breezes NW
Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Four filling bags with Provisions for Inland - rest wheeling Snow from the works to the Banks Edge.
Traded with Natives of Saturday."

Apr. 10 Tuesday
" Clear - Breezes variable from the SW Quarter to NE Raw Cold
Natives of Saturday went away - One man came from the Eastward Tent - Rest as before - except Mr Tate afsisting me Packing Goods for Inland."
[In the margin
" East'd T.
28 Prime Martins
28 Com. do. & 1 Mink
85 Partridges."]

Apr. 11 Wednesday
" Clear & Cold with NW Breezes
Hunter returned to his Tent - Rest as before."

Apr. 12 Thursday
" AM Cloudy with Light Snow Raw Cold - PM Clear Breezes NNW.
Invalids removed to the back of the Island for the Goose Hunt - All hands nearly as before except Labourers who are employed opening Drains.
Finished packing Grocery for Inland."

Apr. 13 Friday
" Early Thick Rime - Raw Cold with NW Breezes part Clear part Cloudy - towards Evening Cloudy with fresh Gales Nly.
Mens Employ the same - Began packing Trading Articles - Not having any Cloth obliged to Pack Knives and other Small articles in Boxes."

Apr. 14 Saturday
" Early AM Thick Rime - Raw Cold - Fresh Breezes Nly part Clear part Cloudy & drift
Mens Employ the same - Hunters came home from Nelson River with Tent and bedding."
[In the margin
" Nelson River Hunters
Killed since their absence
1459 Partridges
33 W Foxes
4 R. do.
1 X do.
1 Wolverine
64 P. Martins
67 C. do.
1-- 1/2 beaver -
W. Smith, W. Budge, J. Hendry
and Crist. Miller."]

Apr. 15 Sunday
" Clear and Severe - Ther. -11 variable breezes from NW to N."

Apr. 16 Monday
" Clear and Severe with NW Breezes towards Evening mild with NE Breezes
Tradesmen and Labourers as before - Sailors and Hunters packing Goods and preparing things for Inland. Eastward Hunters came home with their Tent and bedding.
In the Evening Six families of natives came in for the Goose Hunt - part of whom are Indians belonging to Albany and Severn whose Services I refused as mentioned in this Journal the 14 and 15th of last month. - The reason they afsign for coming to this place is - they are apprehensive of returning to Severn on account of a dreadful Mafsacre of many of their friends last fall at that Settlement - and are fearful of falling a sacrifice to the violence of their Enemies."
[In the margin -
" Eastward Hunters procured
since their absence."]

Apr. 17 Tuesday
" Variable Light Breezes alround the Compafs Clear and moderate.
Mens Employ the same.
Natives came from the back of this Island and had their Treat prior to the Goose Hunt."

Apr. 18 Wednesday
" AM Raw Cold & Cloudy - with light Snow PM Clear - Variable Breezes from NW to NE
Had Fur Ware House Closed in and Covered with Lead. Those not employed on this duty as before. Mr Tate & T Colen afsisting me with Natives who part-paid Debts & Traded."

Apr. 19 Thursday
" Early AM Thick Rime & Raw Cold - afterwards moderate with variable Breezes alround the Compafs.
Mens Employ the same."

Apr. 20 Friday
" Clear Thawing weather with Light Airs Sly.
Natives of Monday finished Trade (they brought a valuable afsortment of prime furs.) and the whole set off to the back of the Island to wait for the Coming of Geese.
Mens Employ the same
Mr James Sutherland taken suddenly Ill. indeed we were much alarmed for his safety. on losing a little blood he found relief. "

Apr. 21 Saturday
" Drifting Snow with NNW Breezes Cloudy & Raw Cold towards Evening Clear.
Gave the men this day to take up Articles from the Ware House in order to close our account - As we could not spare them Cloth or Shirts gave them notes to receive these articles on the Ships Arrival which articles is charged to their Account.
Snow birds again made their appearance none having been seen since the 25th of last month."

Apr. 22 Sunday
" AM Cloudy Light Snow - with NNW Breezes PM Clear. Light Breezes NE. Service for the day."

Apr. 23 Monday
" fresh Gales NW Cloudy with thick Drift early AM afterwards moderate and Clear.
Men exercising Small Arms."

Apr. 24 Tuesday
" Severe Cold fresh Breezes NW Clear
Nine packing Goods for Inland - Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Labourers Wheeling Snow from the works.
Indians came for feather Bags and Guns. - Sent part up the river to look for Geese."

Apr. 25 Wednesday
" Variable Breezes from NW to NE Clear
Mens Employ the same
An Indian came to the Fort, shewed evident signs of Insanity - which was confirmed by Natives who arrived after he left the factory - he attempted to distroy some of the old people at the Tent. Sent Men to bring the Manic to the House. - What is singular - one was brought this day twelve Months - and are the only two Indians I have seen in this state since my arrival in this Country."

Apr. 26 Thursday
" Wind and weather the same
Four set up with the manic last night - and appointed two to attend him during the day, but as he appeared much better this morning after being bled - he was allowed the liberty to walk about the Inner yard but he found means to elude the care of his attendants and run off up the River. - One of the Men caught by the outer garment which he threw off and left the House with only a shirt a pair of Indian Stockings and Shoes. - Dispatched three Men in pursuit of him. - His flight so much alarmed the Natives at the Goose Tent one and all came to the factory. - Its astonishing the Dread they have of being near a person Insane. - even the Idea of having a madman on the Coast will alarm all the Natives for many Miles - and the very name? of one being within several days Journey from their Hunting Ground will occaision that quarter to be diserted for some years - and my fear is that our Goose Hunt will suffer in consequence of this Man's escape - about Midnight the men sent after the poor man returned. Rest of men as before."

Apr. 27 Friday
" Fresh Breezes SW Clear until Evening when it vered Nly blowing strong Cloudy & Severe.
Men as before. Early in the morning Sent three Men after the Insane Indian - who escaped his keepers yesterday. they followed his Track to Tweny Mile Creek - from which he returned back towards the factory. - Much water being on the Ice, they could not trace him below the Nine mile Island - they concluded he was gone to the Indian Tents the back of this Island. the Men returned about 10 at Night."

Apr. 28 Saturday
" Very Severe Cloudy weather at Intervals drifting Snow with NW Breezes.
Mens Employ nearly the same. - Prevailed on three Indians to accompany as many Englishmen to go in pursuit of the poor Manic before mentioned. they returned unsuccefsful - they could not discover the least trace of his foot steps - tis supposed that the Severity of the Weather last night - benumbed his limbs as rendered him quite uncapable of moving from the place where he laid down. - And this was confirmed by the Natives sent up the River last Tuesday who returned - declared they saw nothing of his Track - therefore too concluded that he has fell a sacrifice to the inclemency of the Weather."

Apr. 29 Sunday
" Cloudy thick drifting Snow - Severe Cold with fresh Gales NE & variable to N - towards evening moderate & Clear.
No Tidings of the Manic."

Apr. 30 Monday
" Clear Severe Weather with Nly Breezes
Sent three Men in search of the Manic returned unsuccefsful - Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Eight packing Goods for Inland rest variously Employed.
Sent off all the Indians to the Goose Tent. The friends of the poor Indian informed me to day that he had been in the same state twice before - that it was their determination to have distroyed him to prevent his doing mischief - had not he escaped as he did. - They further say that he was fully sensible that would have been his fate so soon as the Men hunters returned (as mentioned on Saturday) which made him run off - and they are of opinion that he has fallen into some hole in the River Ice - and is drowned."

May 1 Tuesday 1798
" Early AM fresh Breezes NE which increased as the day advanced to a Hurricane with Thick drifting Snow. Raw Cold.
Mens Employ the same."

May 2 Wednesday
" Much Snow fell during last night which is deeper on the Ground this morning than it has been at any time this Season. it Continued at intervals until noon when it began to clear up. variable Breezes from NE to NW.
Finished packing Trading Goods for Inland - We have not had any red Cloth in the factory since the fall of the year, consequently have not a yard to send Inland - An Article of all others very much called for at the upper Settlements. neither have we been able to pack a single yard of Corded Cloth of any kind this Season - The small quantity reserved for Natives who visit this place in Summer is not one half of what has been usually Traded for some seasons past. - Your honors will please to notice that a large quantity of fine Red Cloth was indented for the preceeding year of which only two half pieces was sent to York - this will occaision great complaint from Inland and as Natives cannot be supplied with Articles they want from the Companys Servants they will naturally apply to the Canadians - who always charge double for the Articles purchased by Indians who are in habits of Trading with the Companys Servants unlefs they promise to trade with them in future - when once an Indian's promise is pafsed - they depend on him in future or they compel him to their Terms - and charge him in proportion as a debt for the Goods he had of them before - and they seize their skins for payment - Impoverished as the Natives often are they cannot afford to loose so much - they have no other alternative but to trade with the Canadians in future. Therefore I am fearful - in which all my officers are of the same opinion - that the impoverishing this place so very much will occaision many Natives to leave this factory - indeed we very sensibly feel it already."

May 3 Thursday
" Clear sharp weather early AM with NW by W Breezes PM Moderately mild towards Evening wind vered NE by E
Men packing Trading Articles yesterday - Making up Rolls of Tobacco for Inland. - Tradesmen and others as before."

May 4 Friday
" Cloudy with light Breezes NE towards evening small Rain.
Mens Employ the same
Overhauled Tradesmens Tools & Stores & removed them into new Store Room.
Geese - & black foxes seen."
[In the margin "3rd Geese Seen"]

May 5 Saturday
" part Clear part Cloudy Light Breezes variable from NE to E by S - towards Evening Nly with Light Snow.
Mens Employ nearly the same
Sent several Natives up the River to look for Game.
A Gull seen a sure sign that the Rivers & lakes upwards are full of Water."

May 6 Sunday
" AM Cloudy light Snow & Nly Breezes - towards Evening vered NW"

May 7 Monday
" Variable light Airs from NW to NE & E by S & back to NE & NW part Clear part Cloudy.
Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Ten packing Tobacco - for Inland - rest variously employed Wheeling snow from Garden &c.
The Natives sent up the River on Saturday returned unsuccefsful - no Game stirring - Engaged them to try Nelson River."

May 8 Tuesday
" Clear Weather with light Airs NW
Mens Employ the same."

May 9 Wednesday
" Wind & Weather the same - Men engaged yesterday packing tobacco - Slinging Bundles - & Rundlets for Spts and powder - rest as before."

May 10 Thursday
" AM Cloudy & Raw Cold with Nly Breezes Sleet & rain PM part Clear part Cloudy with Spirts of snow towards Evening Sleet & small Rain.
Mens Employ as before.
Part of Natives set off up Nelson River - part up this to try for Game - 1st Goose Killed."
[In the margin " Wilks 1 Goose."]

May 11 Friday
" Variable light Breezes from NW to NE & Sly Early AM Sleet afterwards Clear & fine
Began filling Spirit & Powder Rundlets for Inland. Four Men afsisting Carpenters building New Cow House - rest as before.
In the afternoon three families of Natives arrived for the Goose Hunt - paid Debts &c. Three of those sent up this river yesterday returned with a few Geese."
[In the margin
" Favel 3 Geese
Tommy 3
Wilks 1 "]

May 12 Saturday
" Part Clear part Cloudy with fresh Gales Sly towards Evening Rain.
Men as before - The Natives who arrived yesterday pitched away to the Marsh - All those sent up the River on Thursday returned with several Geese suff't to serve out all the Men one day."
[In the margin
" Kitaway 20 Geese
Ometick 17
Corsequoy 6
Kitaway's Son 5
Groundwater 6
Wahpoose 2
Tommy 1
Favel 2
Wakisuket 3"]

May 13 Sunday
" Clear fine weather with variable Breezes
Sent two Men up the River for Geese left by Natives yesterday - Also two to the Marsh With Ammunition."
[In the margin
" Durrnee? 10 Geese
Canneganee 10
Corsequoy 10 - left up the River yesterday"]

May 14 Monday
" Fresh Breezes variable from Ne to NW Cloudy at times hail.
Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Labourers variously Employed. Sailors making Canvas Cases for Inland Guns.
Began Work in Garden."

May 15 Tuesday
" AM Cloudy & Raw Cold. PM Clear. Variable Breezes from NW to NE. - Ten Shilling Creek Ice gave way as did the South Channel of this River - Many pieces were forced up abreast the plantation and much water along Shore. The Ice appears very lofty upwards.
Mens Employ as before."

May 16 Wednesday
" Cloudy cold Weather with variable Breezes from NNW to ENE - Hail & small Snow at intervals during the day.
From the large & bulky pieces of Ice going down the South Channel - it appears that it has a clear pafsage to Sea. - The North Channel much as yesterday. Sent three Men to the Marsh for Geese - two afsisting in distilling - Rest as before."
[In the margin
" Ometick - 8 Geese
Kitaway ---3
Wakisuket . 3
Wilks ---- 4
Groundwater 5
Favil --- 1
Tisheway -- 2
Kitaway's Son 4
Canneganee - 1
J. Petrie - 3
T. Bug ----4
Billy ----- 4
Okisk -----5."]

May 17 Thursday
" AM Very Severe Ther. +13 Cloudy with NW Breezes PM Light Airs NE Clear
Mens Employ nearly the same. - very little alteration in the River Ice from yesterday."

May 18 Friday
" AM light Airs Sly Clear - PM Variable Breezes from SE to NE & N by W.
River Ice and men's Employ - nearly as yesterday."

May 19 Saturday
" AM Cloudy with Nly Breezes PM Clear with light Airs NE towards Evening Thick fog.
Sent thirteen Men for Geese - rest nearly as before. little alteration in the River Ice."
[In the margin
Kitaway --- 24 Geese
--- do. -- 10 -
--- do. -- 10 -
Groundwater 29 -
Billy ---- 4 -
Okisk ----15 -
Tom Bug -- 19 -
J. Petrie - 26 -
Thickitoose 4 -
Canneganee - 14 -
Tishiway -- 23 -
Corsequoy - 30 -
Wakisucket - 11 -
Ometick --- 47 -
Wilks ---- 20 -
Tommy ---- 27 -
Favil ---- 18 -
Wahpoose -- 2 -
Kitaway's Son 11
_________________
------------ 344"]

May 20 Sunday
" AM Thick foggy Weather - afterwards Cloudy with heavy Rain Variable Breezes from NW to NE & E.
No alteration in the River Ice - Swallows made their appearance."

May 21 Monday
" Cloudy Weather with heavy Rain variable Breezes from E to N by W towards Evening Hail & Snow - River Ice as before. Sent Men for Geese - Tradesmen at their respective occupations. rest variously Employed."
[In the margin
" Ometick --- 52 Geese
J. Petrie ---- 16
T. Bug ------- 10
Okisk -------- 24
Favil -------- 27
Athickitoose - 5
Canneganee --- 15
Tishiway ----- 13
Kitaway ------ 41
Corsequoy ---- 30
Groundwater -- 25
Tommy ------ 15
Wakisuket ---- 13
Wilks -------- 12
Wahpoose ----- 3
_______________
301 "]

May 22 Tuesday
" Cloudy Sleet at Intervals and Raw Cold - with Breezes NW towards Evening vered Wly & became Clear.
Mens Employ nearly the same.
In the Evening the River Ice abreast the plantation gave way and pafsed down the River until it rec'ed a Check at the fishing Creek which rose the Water and forced much heavy Ice on the launch and Slip and filled the River from Bank to Bank. All hands up the greater part of the night."
[In the margin
" Kitaway ---- 20
Ometick ------ 16
Kitaway's Son 24
Corsequoy ---- 6
Groundwater --- 6
J Petrie ------ 3
T Bug --------- 3
Okisk --------- 1
Tommy --------- 4
Wakisuket ----- 8
Canneganee ---- 2
Tisheway ------ 4
Billy --------- 4
Athickitoose -- 2
Favil --------- 4
__________________
107 Geese."]

May 23 Wednesday
" Part Clear part Cloudy Raw Cold Wind Variable alround the Compafs - towards Evening a fresh Gale NNE.
Tradesmen as before - Rest of men variously Employed preparing things for Inland. - Wheeling Mould & Digging Gardens."

May 24 Thursday
" Severe frosty Weather Raw Cold & Cloudy - with variable Breezes from NW to N
Sent Seven Men for Geese - Rest as before."
[In the margin-
"Kitaway -- 31
Corsequoy - 37
Wakisuket - 20
Cannegawnee 20 - & 1 Rump of Venison
Tishiway -- 2
Kitaways Son 7
Wahpoose--- 2
_____________
---- 119 "]

May 25 Friday
" AM very Severe PM Mild towards Evening Warm & Sultry. Frogs made their appearance. - Clear weather with variable Breezes alround the Compafs.
Two Men employed blowing up large piece of Ice laying on the Slip and Launch with Gun Powder. - Rest nearly as before."
[In the margin-
" Kitaway --- 29 Geese
Ometick ----- 74
Corsequoy --- 23
Groundwater - 7
J. Petrie --- 40
T. Bug ------ 18
Okisk ------- 27
Tommy ------- 22
Wakisuket --- 14
Wilks ------- 7
Favil ------- 22
Canneganee -- 15
Tishaway ---- 18
Ashicusk? --- 21 Kitaway's Son
Wahpoose ---- 1
________
--- 338."]

May 26 Saturday
" Early AM Clear with Sly Breezes - afterwards Cloudy with variable Breezes from E to NE - And a Continued heavy Rain during the day.
Took men and Boat, went up the River to examine Islands and Shores - find there has been a heavy breaking up of the Ice, by the quantity which is piled very lofty along the banks - A more disagreeable day I have not experienced since my residence in Hudsons Bay.
Rest of men nearly as before."
[In the margin-
" Kitaway --- 13
Ometick ----- 15
Groundwater - 47
J Petrie ---- 5
Okisk ------- 7
Wilks ------- 10
Favil ------- 17
Billy ------- 5
Athickitoose 7
Ashicusk? --- 7
Tom Bug ----- 7
________
----140."]

May 27 Sunday
" AM Severe Raw Cold thick drifting Snow with fresh Breezes NNE - PM more moderate towards Evening Clear.
No Geese flying two Indians came from the Marsh to by a little liquor. gave them some & sent them away."

May 28 Monday
" part Clear part Cloudy with variable Breezes from N to S
Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Labourers variously Employed in Gardens &c. - Two Bungee Natives arrived in a Canoe. They belong to a large tribe who are tenting near the L'Mure A'Sippee where the Canadians have a settlement up the Sumataway River - nearly in the Center of their Hunting Ground - who traded all their Skins so soon as animals were killed - & they do not expect their friends will be able to pay their Debts. - Made particular enquiries respecting Mr Don McKay - whom they appear to dislike very much & seemed pleased when they heard of his having left York."

May 29 Tuesday
" part Clear part Cloudy with fresh Breezes Sly.
Sent 9 Men for Geese. when tide Served Launched six Boats and Moored them - Afterwards men Employ as yesterday. This morning two Canoes of home Guard Natives arrived brought Letters from Mr Whitford - It is with concern I hear the Canadians have been among my home Guards & traded many Skins from them - & that very few have suff't to pay their contracted debts owing in York Books.
The Bungee Natives of yesterday paid debts & Traded."

May 30 Wednesday
" Thick Hazy Weather AM afterwards Clear & Sultry variable Light airs Sly.
Had Long Boat Launched into River. Mens employ as before.
All the Natives came from the Marsh with Feather Bags &c tell me the Geese have left the Coast - Gave them a little liquor & desired them to wait at their Tents a few days longer."

May 31 Thursday
" AM light Airs S by E Clear Weather PM variable from E to N
Appointed Men to take up Boats to Gordon House laid out Cargoes & had Goods taken to launch Ho. - All hands busily Employed on Inland duties. The Bungee Natives of Monday went away - and in the Evening all the Goose Hunters returned from the Marsh - all kinds of Aquatic fowl having left this Coast - 1918 Geese Killed this Spring."

June 1 1798 Friday
" Fresh Breezes Nly clear
All hands busily employed on Inland duties & attending Natives."

June 2 Saturday
" Fresh Breezes NE - Early AM thick fog afterwards Clear
When Tide Served sent off Twenty two Men with two Large Batteaux Loaded with Trading Goods to Gordon House - Rest variously Employed - Engaged two Indians to proceed before the boats & hunt for Men conducting them.
In the Evening three Canoes of Natives arrived well Loaded with furs - They came from a party who are waiting the crofsing of Deer near Steel River point - & to solicit a supply of Ammunition &c."

June 3 Sunday
" Fresh Breezes NE Early AM Thick fog afterwards Clear
When tide served took men & boat & went to Ten Shilling Creek - were succefsful Angling of? few Trout."

June 4 Monday
" Light Breezes NE Clear
Men variously Employed - The Natives of Saturday went away."

June 5 Tuesday
" Severe frost last night & thick fog early AM afterwards clear & fine with light Breezes NW.
Sent Men in Boat to bring home the flesh of Seven Deer killed this Morning by Native Hunters. rest as before."

June 6 Wednesday
" AM Clear - WSW Breezes PM fresh Breezes and gusts of Wind & Cloudy
Launched a New Batteaux - Mens employ nearly as on Monday."

June 7 Thursday
" Early AM Sharp frosty Weather Cloudy afterwards Clear. Breezes NE
Mens Employ as before."

June 8 Friday
" Early AM sharp freezing Weather afterwards Clear with Breezes NE.
Mens Employ as before.
In the afternoon Twenty Six Canoes of home Guards arrived with two Canoes of play Green Indians. the latter confirms the Accounts before heard of the Canadians having a Settlement near Deep Water Lake - and the small quantity of furs they brought with them is convincing that these enterprizing Traders have shared part of their hunt."

June 9 Saturday
" AM fresh Breezes SSW Clear afterwards Cloudy
Part of Natives paid Debts & Traded.
Busily Employed in Trading Room - rest as before."

June 10 Sunday
" Light Breezes NE Clear.
Busily Employed in Trading Room the whole day. The home Guard Natives have hitherto paid Debts very honorably & Traded a quantity of prime furs."

June 11 Monday
" part Clear part Cloudy with variable Breezes from NE to SE early AM Small Rain.
Twenty Canoes of Home Guard Natives arrived. The Death of a Son of the Chief who was the principal hunter early in the fall stopped the whole party from killing furs. - this is frequently the case with Indians who are superstitious often carries them to great lengths - so that I am apprehensive the whole tribe will fall short in the payment of their debt. - A Child also died among them early in the Spring is another circumstance which occaisioned many to destroy their Skins to appease the wrath of the Evil Genii - Reason has little influence while the mind is biased by prejudice and it's not in the power of the most enlightened to turn the Natives from their old accustomed ways."
Employed the whole day with Indians in Trading Room - Towards midnight three Canoes of Natives arrived."

June 12 Tuesday
" fresh Breezes NE Clear
Early this morning five Canoes of Bungees arrived apparently well loaded with furs as did two Canoes of home Guards in the Evening - All hands busily Employed with Natives & preparing for Inland."

June 13 Wednesday
" Light Airs from SE to S part Clear part Cloudy. Spirts of Rain early AM with Thunder.
About Noon the man sent to Gordon house the 2d Instant returned loaded with Wood Cut down in Hill River & 1300 MBeaver in furs traded by Mr Whitford.
Will Manson Pateroon informs me that he found the body of a female Native driving? with the Current yesterday drowned - which he burried - and he is of opinion that she belonged to a tribe of Indians who arrived at Gordon House the day he reached that Settlement.
Employment nearly as before."

June 14 Thursday
" Clear Weather with light Airs SE Muskatoes numerous & troublesome - towards Evening heavy Rain.
Busily Employed with natives & preparing for Inland.
In the afternoon an Englishman & Native arrived from Gordon House - They came in Search of the poor female mentioned yesterday who was wife to the Indian.
Had Goods carried to Launch House & every thing prepared for Men setting off tomorrow."

June 15 Friday
" Early AM Cloudy with SSE Breezes with Muskatoes more numerous & troublesome than I ever saw them at York - Middle of day Clear - latter part thick fog with NE Breezes.
The Bungees of the 11th & 12th went away. - Had three? Batteaux loaded with Trading Goods and about noon delivered up the Keys & charge of the factory to Mefs James Sutherland and Tate (the former to attend factory duties the latter Trading Natives) and embarked for Gordon House accompanied by Twenty three Englishmen and thirteen Natives."

"By James Sutherland
After the Governor set off for Gordon House - people were employed putting two Boats into the River - shifting some mooring - Clearing Launch House of Cargo - &c - Several Natives left the factory."

June 16 Saturday
" Thick fog with heavy Rain Wind NE
Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Two Men brewing - rest clearing Ware Houses &c."

June 17 Sunday
" Thin driving fog with light Showers of Rain at Intervals - Wind NNE"

June 18 Monday
" Ely Breezes Clear
Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Rest variously Employed.
Several Natives went away in Sixteen Canoes. others put acrofs the River in Boats - Sent the Hunter to set Nets.
Several pieces of Ice drove up the River with the flood near to Sloops Creek. & the Mouth of the River filled with it."

June 19 Tuesday
" NE Breezes Clear.
Men's Employ nearly the same - Ten Canoes of Natives left the factory."

June 20 Wednesday
" Clear Weather Wind SW
Tradesmen as before - One Man Taning? & rigging of Hay Stuff - others Cleaning Fur Shed - in the forenoon - afterwards getting Sand to the factory for the use of Bricklayer."

June 21 Thursday
" Clear Weather NE light Breezes
Early this morning Mefs Cook & Sinclair accompanied by three Canoes of Natives arrived from Nelson Settlements.
Mens employ nearly as before.
In the Evening a Native brought the flesh of one Deer and three fish. - Several Indians came in to beg provisions the scarcity of Game is so great."

June 22 Friday
" Cloudy weather wind NW Tradesmen as before rest afsisting Mr Cook packing up goods &c."

June 23 Saturday
" Wind the same Clear.
Mens Employ nearly the same except two Digging Garden
Three Canoes of Natives belonging to Mr Cook set off with Trading Goods."

June 24 Sunday
" Cloudy Weather Nly Breezes - Reced the flesh of one Deer from Hunters."

June 25 Monday
" Hazy Weather Wind variable.
Tradesmen employed nearly as last week. others Carrying Cargo to Launch House for Mr Cook. in the afternoon Eleven Englishmen in four large Canoes from Nelson Settlements Loaded with Furs - as did the Succefs Batteaux and one Canoe Loaded with furs from Gordon House."

June 26 Tuesday
" Dark Weather with heavy Rain Nly Breezes
Mens Employ nearly as before."

June 27 Wednesday
" Variable Breezes alround the Compafs
Mens Employ nearly the same.
In the Evening Mefs Colen & Sutherland arrived from Gordon House accompanied by Indians in three Canoes."

"by Joseph Colen
Nothing worthy of notice occurred during my pafsage to Gordon House where I arrived early in the morning of the 21st June - The two large Batteaux arrived the day following - delivered their Cargoes safe. It is with pleasure I observe that Gordon Store does not contain lefs than 30,000 MBeaver in Trading Goods at this time suff't for thirty Canoe Cargoes. - this Settlement is very poorly off for provisions occaisioned by the Canadians being so near - who collected all the Meat from Indians so soon as the Animals were Killed.
Got every thing ready for the sending off the Natives who accompanied me hither to the factory."

June 23 Saturday
" 23'd - Mefs Tomison - Sutherland - Rofs - Bird - Oman - Swain - Pruden and the 3rd James Sutherland accompanied by 82 Men in 23 large Canoes loaded with furs arrived. Trade up the Saskachewan much lefs than last year Occaisioned by the Decentions between the Canadian Officers and Mr Tomison & the former Stopping the Bungees from paying their Credits to the latter . other Officers up that River have made Good returns"

June 24 Sunday
" 24th Called Council to engage Men and entered a few into Contract. Many positively refuse the Companys terms. Fixed Men to Boats. Prevailed on Mr Bird to return Inland who entered into Contract, he Complains very much on the unpleasantnefs of his situation the last year on account of the Conduct of Men who have again taken on them? the superior Command. Fitted out Ten Natives and sent them down to York in small Batteaux & Canoes loaded with furs."

June 25 Monday
" Busily Employed this day - sorting & selecting of Goods. packing Guns in Cases - Unpacking of Bundles & repacking them.
Fixed Men to Canoes - to return to Trout River where they are to deliver their Cargoes to be conveyed Inland by Boats.
Settled with Mr Tomison plan for our future opperations the ensuing season - fixed Men to different Stations - Selected proper Canoes for the conveyance of Goods between Gordon House and the Store House to be errected at Deep Water Lake. - Wrote out list of Men who are to return from Trout River with furs - also a list of those who are to proceed to the upper Settlements."

June 26 Tuesday
" Having settled all Inland Concerns - and finished every thing apparently to the satisfaction of Mr Tomison - who undertook to sort & lay out Canoe Cargoes - Had Boats loaded with furs. and about Seven AM embarked for YF accompanied by Mr George Sutherland & family - leaving Mefs Rofs - Bird - Howse, Swain & Pruden & young Sutherland to afsist Mr Tomison to lay out Cargoes &c for all the Canoes brought down this Season."

June 27 Wednesday
" Arrived at York Fort in the Evening of this day where I found Mefs Cook & Sinclair and party from Nelson Settlements - who had every thing in readinefs to return with a Cargo of Goods.
Three Canoes of Indians arrived."

June 28 Thursday
" Variable Breezes from SE to N part Clear part Cloudy
Several Canoes of Natives arrived
Wind too strong for the Canoes to leave the factory. Men variously Employed.
In the Evening Wm Manson & party (ten Men) arrived in two large Batteaux loaded with Furs from Gordon House (164 Bundles) - One of the Boats unfortunately was stove coming down the Ripples in Hill River - but no other accident happened except the wetting of a few Bundles - of furs.
Three of the Men who accompanied Wm Manson are Invalids from Inland, Eleven factory Men are left at Gordon House to accompany Mr Tomison to the upper Settlements."

June 29 Friday
" Strong Gales of Wind during the last night - AM Cloudy with hail at times during the day with Nly Breezes PM Clear & moderate.
Men variously Employed. Too bad Weather for Canoes to leave the factory when tide served.
About Noon four Canoes of Bungee Natives arrived well Loaded with furs. - They brought with them the Corpse of an Infant who died in their pafsage hither - were very particular respecting the directions they gave for its Internment.
In the afternoon four Canoes of Indians set off - took goods for Mr Cook."

June 30 Saturday
" Early AM Cloudy afterwards Clear with Light Breezes variable from E to NE.
Early this morning Twelve men in four Large Canoes set off Loaded with Trading Goods for Nelson Settlements.
Three Canoes of Natives arrived with a few furs paid debts - in part.
Mens Employ as yesterday."

July 1 1798 Sunday
" Strong Gales NE part Clear part Cloudy - Raw Cold. The Thermometer this morning below freezing.
Several Canoes arrived this day with a few Deer Skins. Tho' their Trade is very indifferent it proves very expensive as the Bungees Traded this day made every preparation to leave the factory tomorrow but new faces appearing among them will occaision them to drink together and very probably detain them some days as they Traded a quantity of Brandy. - part of the Indians who left the factory yesterday came from the Marsh."

July 2 Monday
" AM Cloudy with Showers of Rain wind variable from ESE to S PM Clear.
Early this morning Mr Cook accompanied by five Natives set off in two Canoes for Nelson Settlements. Had Cargoes taken to launch House - Engaged Indians to accompany Englishmen in two Batteaux to take Goods to the Rock Store. The detention of Mr Rofs and other Officers at Gordon House is a great hinderance to our businefs - as I am obliged to wait their arrival before I can fix on a Master for the New Settlement to be erected at the head of Trout River."

July 3 Tuesday
" AM variable fresh Breezes alround the Compafs - with showers of Rain Cloudy PM Clear with moderate Breezes SW.
Sent Men to Nets - Two Men mending Small Canoes. An Englishman and three Indians came acrofs the Island from Mr Cook & party for a small supply of Provisisons &c fitted them out to return tomorrow.
The non arrival of Goods from Gordon House delays me very much and I cannot send off the Boats tho every thing is now ready for their leaving the factory."

July 4 Wednesday
" AM Cloudy with heavy Rain - with variable Breezes PM Clear. towards Evening a fog from Sea with Breezes NE.
Early this Morning Mefs Rofs - Howse - Swain - & Pruden whose Contracts expire this Season - arrived from Gordon House - accompanied by two Men who are disabled and one (John Mowatt 2d) totally uselefs from the day of his arrival - these Gent. tell me that Mr Tomison left the Rock Store on Sunday last with Men in Twenty two Canoes - but left Mr Whitford entirely destitute of provisions. Fixed Men for Boats - and engaged Indians to accompany them - & made preparations for their leaving the factory to morrow - The Bungees of the 29th Ult. went away - Engaged Mr Wm Sinclair as Master to the New Settlement to be errected at Trout River tho he pofsitively refused accepting the Company's Terms of 35£ pr Annum as his terms were sent home last Season he goes up till Ship time When I promised to send him the Honble Companys Determination.
All hands busily Employed on Inland duties."

July 5 Thursday
" Light airs and gentle Breezes variable from N to E Early AM thick fog afterward Clear.
Had two Batteaux and one Large Canoe Loaded - and about Noon thirteen Englishmen & Eight Natives set off to Gordon House in readinefs to meet the Canoes from Trout River - fitted out Mr William Sinclair and appointed him Master of a House to be errected at the enterance of Pathepow Nippee or Deep Water Lake. vide Country Correspondence No.27 my Instructions to him.
Sent off several Indians to hunt for Game and appointed Men to raft home Fire wood tomorrow."

July 6 Friday
" Light Breezes N by E thick fog AM Afterwards Clear PM Stiff Breezes.
When tide served sent off ten Men to Raft home and several Indians accompanied by Mefs Geo. Sutherland and Rofs - went to the point of Marsh to haul Seine Net no Luck.
Twelve Canoes left the factory."

July 7 Saturday
" Wind & Weather nearly the same till about Noon when it became Cloudy with spirts of Rain afterwards Clear.
Four Men opening Fur Bundles from Inland. Sorting & drying of Skins &c. rest variously Employed in Trading Room Except a party accompanied by Mefs Sutherland & Rofs who went up the River to Haul the Seine."

July 8 Sunday
" Wind & weather nearly the same.
Engaged in Trading Room the whole day. Trusted several of the Old Home Guards their Winters Debt. they say that the Coast is so impoverished they cannot provide food for their families and wish to get into a more plentiful Country. As our Warehouses does not contain sufficient for the whole to take up Debts the Young Men are to return in the fall of the Year for this purpose - In the Afternoon Ten Canoes of Natives went away."

July 9 Monday
" Clear with NE Breezes
Engaged with the few Men left at York packing of furs."

July 10 Tuesday
" Cloudy. Wind & Mens Employ the same."

July 11 Wednesday
" Clear - Wind & Mens Employ the same.
Men came from the Woods with Six Rafts - the Shoals in the River above the Mile Sand stopped their bringing them to the factory until the Evening Tide.
Sent several Indians up the River to look for Deer."

July 12 Thursday
" Fresh Breezes variable from W to N Clear.
The Men who came from the Woods yesterday returned for more Rafts.
Employment of others as before."

July 13 Friday
" Very Sultry with variable light Airs. Clear
An Indian & family went away & took Goods for Mr Cook. Mens Employ nearly the same."

July 14 Saturday
" Fresh Breezes Nly Raw Cold & Cloudy 53 Degrees Colder today than it was yesterday by Fahrenheit's Scale.
Mens Employ nearly the same.
The Men came from the woods with Six Rafts which stuck on the Shoals up the River and were not got to the factory before two OClock in the morning of the - "

July 15 Sunday
" Wind & Weather the same.
Two Canoes of Bungees arrived - as did two Canoes of home Guards who went up the River on Wednesday last who brought the flesh of two small Deer."

July 16 Monday
" AM thick fog and Cloudy - PM Clear Light Breezes NE
The Natives of yesterday Traded & went away - and those who accompanied the Men and Boats the 5th Instant returned accompanied by one Englishman in a large Canoe Loaded with furs from Gordon House - they brought An Indian with them who had the misfortune to blow his left hand off at the Wrist by the bursting of his Gun - he is one of those I engaged to Hunt for Mr Sinclair and party who are gone up to build a House at the head of Trout River. - It was a new Gun the poor fellow purchased a few days before he left York.
Indians are in general very superstitious - they prefer their own method of treating Wounds &c or sick people in preference to the most skilful English Surgeon and notwithstanding the Number that fall Victim they persevere in their mode of treatment.
The Men Who brought home Rafts afsisting carrying Wood up Bank and those from Inland packing of furs. - Two Canoes of Indians arrived in a very impoverished State."

July 17 Tuesday
" Breezes NE Clear
Mens Employ nearly the same
Two Canoes of Natives arrived with a few Deer Skins. The Deer having Crofsed (to the Northward this Summer) very high up this River prevented our being supported with venison as formerly and we have been very badly off for fresh Provisions Since the Geese left the Coast."

July 18 Wednesday
" Light Breezes S by W Clear & Sultry
Mens Employ as before - Indians afsisting carrying Wood up Bank.
In the afternoon Twenty four Englishmen in Nine Canoes arrived with 131 Bundles of furs - These are part of those dispatched from Gordon Store Ho. to convey Goods to the Boats - also to Jack River and Swan River Settlements - but to my utter surprize those Men & Canoes appointed to the latter stations are also returned Mr Tomison having taken their Cargoes on their arrival at Trout River. This will be a severe stroke to our pursuits the ensuing Season as I fitted out these Canoes purposely to convey a quantity of Goods to Jack River as my intentions were to oppose the Canadians who were in the Bungee Country last Winter within five days Journey of Mr Isham - and this circumstance I communicated to Mr Tomison who approved the plan very much - yet he alone has overturned the undertaking."
[In the margin "(John Rofs & John Park) The men to have gone on this Expedition were those who have been stationed to the Northward with Mr Rofs but whether he has done it to thwart my designs I will not pretend to say but he has taken those very Men with him up the Saskachewan River and also the very Canoes that were built this year and were fixed on to Convey Goods between Gordon Store & Trout River."]

July 19 Thursday
" Sultry warm weather flys numerous & troublesome. fresh Breezes S by W at times & part Calm Hazy & very dark occasisioned by Smoak from Woods on fire up this River which has been burning for upwards of three Weeks past.
Men & Indians as yesterday - finished carrying Wood up Bank."

July 20 Friday
" AM Wind & Weather as yesterday - PM Breezes Nly. Overcast.
Those Men packing furs as Yesterday. the rest with Indians Rafting Drift Wood from the flats they brought home three Good rafts.
In the Evening James Sandison arrived from Gordon House in a Large Canoe Loaded with furs - he waited purposely at that Settlement to afsist Mr Whitford to take stock of Goods in Store there. I am sorry to find that every article packed for Swan and Jack River settlements are taken up the Saskachewan together with the Officers Cloathing - Grocery & ? which were equally divided among the whole on this Establishment packed & directed for each particular Settlement separately, the same as the Medicine Boxes from England - even the latter belonging to Swan River is also taken and with no other view but to disappoint others as Mr Thomas Swain tells me that he spoke Mr Tomison on the Subject at Gordon House & begged him not to take it on account of the necefsity there was for Medicine at Charlton House (a House built years ago at Red River & subordinate to Swan River)
Not having a proper afsortment of Articles left in York Ware House to fit out the Canoes will be a great lofs to the Company as it will stop a House being errected this fall in the Red Deer River in opposition to the Canadians who Collected 140 Bundles of furs this last Season from Indians in that Quarter. Vide No.23 Country Correspondence. Twenty or Thirty Men can be well spared from the Saskachewan Settlements without the least detriment to the Trade. this is Convincing the utility of Boats - when 32 Men at low Wages take up four Boats loaded with 18 Canoe Cargoes which three Years ago required 72 Men at Wages very high - And I sincerely hope that in a few Years every Inland Settlement will be amply supplied with Goods so as to oppose the Canadians in all Quarters."
[In the margin " 72 Men conducting 18 Canoes Inland their Wages on an average amounts to 1048£
32 Men going up with Boats this Season their Wages - 355£ - amounts to 693£ saved to the Co. besides the Mens provisions from the factory which amounts to no inconsiderable Sum annually. the payment for Bark & building of Canoes is an object of importance."]

July 21 Saturday
" NE Breezes - AM foggy PM Clear
Those employed packing furs as before - Rest with Natives carrying Wood up Bank."

July 22 Sunday
" Sultry Weather with variable Light Airs
Sent Natives Hunting for Moulting Ducks & Geese."

July 23 Monday
" Part Clear part Cloudy - with Breezes NE.
Sent fourteen Men and Several Indians to raft home Drift Wood from the flats - part of Inland Men packing furs - Six in Sick list."

July 24 Tuesday
" Sultry Weather with variable Breezes towards Evening Lightening - & Showers of Rain
Men & Indians rafting yesterday carrying Wood up Bank - - Finished packing of Furs from Inland - I am sorry to observe Trade fall very considerably short of last year notwithstanding there was a larger stock of Goods sent to the upper Settlements than there was ever known before - The Northward Stations was relinquished last Summer in favor of Churchill is another circumstance which occaisions a great dimunition of our returns - but 'tis to be hoped the honble Co. will have these lofses made good by the succefs of our fellow Servants at that Settlement."

July 25 Wednesday
" Variable Breezes from S to N part Clear part Cloudy AM Sultry & Flys numerous & troublesome.
Sent Men to Raft home Drift Wood accompanied by several Indians. rest variously Employed packing Goods for Inland. our Ware Houses are so exhausted of Trading Goods it is with difficulty I can muster sufficient for three Canoe Cargoes - having 70 Men to provide for daily out of our small stock of Provisions & not one week for all hands remaining is very alarming - as we have but little Ammunition to procure food - our whole dependance at present for fresh Victuals is on Young Ducks & Moulting Water fowl killed by Indians with Dogs and it is out of my power to trust them their Winters Debts until the arrival of the Ship. almost the whole of the Hunters have left the Factory to procure food for their families & some are gone to other Settlements for those supplies they could not have at York."

July 26 Friday
" AM Breezes Ely Clear PM NE
Mefs Sutherland Rofs &c with Indians went to Ten Shilling Creek & hauled the Seine. Not one fish Caught.
Rest picking? up Roots from Cattle yard."

July 28 Saturday
" SW Breezes Clear & Sultry
The party sent yesterday to haul the Seine tryed various parts of the River for fish No luck only one small Jack about 4 Ounces Weight procured by 16 Men.
Rest as before."

July 29 Sunday
" Wly Breezes AM Clear PM Light Airs SW
Indians brought in a few young Ducks & Moulting Geese.
Had Canoes got ready for Men to leave the factory tomorrow."

July 30 Monday
" Fresh Breezes Westerly part Clear part Hazy - Much Thunder at a disyance with Lightening & Showers of Rain - Sultry
Mefs Sutherland - Rofs Swain & Pruden accompanied by several Men from Inland and Indians went to the point of Marsh & hauled the Seine - caught a few Suckers - Had upper Buoys set - rest variously Employed. sent ten Men to raft home fire Wood."

July 31 Tuesday
Part Clear part Cloudy with variable Breezes
Ten Men in three Canoes set off for Swan River Settlement - rest of Men belonging to that Settlement in Sick list or laid up with Wounds - Had Beacons prepared and got ready to set tomorrow - Had all the Guns fit for use put into Cases to send Inland - Scarcely any articles are on Remains fit for Inland Trade."

Aug. 1 1798 Wednesday
" Rain during last night Hazy AM with Light Breezes Wly PM Clear & Sultry.
Sent Men to lay Buoys - and set both the Beacons.
Indians brought in a few Young Ducks. &c."

Aug. 2 Thursday
" Clear Weather with Variable Breezes
Mefs Geo. Sutherland, Rofs, Pruden & Swain left the Factory and set off to the eastward to procure provisions for themselves & families. four Men afsisting them acrofs to the fourteens.
Mr James Sutherland & four Men went to see how the Rafters go on - Carpenters repairing Launch &c."

Aug. 3 Friday
" Early AM Clear with moderate Breezes - Afterwards Strong Gales - and gusts of Wind variable with much heavy Thunder and Lightening and Rain.
All hands began puting up Launch.
The Men who accompanied Mr Sutherland & party yesterday returned early."

Aug. 4 Saturday
" Cloudy Weather with Breezes SW - in the afternoon Rain.
Finished putting down Launch - Sent ten Men to bring home Rafts.
In the afternoon Mr Chas Tho Isham accompanied by four Men and two Natives arrived in two Canoes from Jack River.
Mr Isham informs me that all the Trading Goods conveyed to Jack River by his people are taken up the Saskachewan & only four Bundles of Trading Goods & five small Kegs of High Spirits excepted. without a load of Powder or Skain of Twine. the depriving him of the last articles renders the others of no use whatever as the chief living of the Men at that place are on what the Nets produce and when he left the Settlement there was not one days victuals of any kind at the House. that it was not his intention to come to the Factory - could he have got supplies at Gordon House which is also left destitute of the articles he wants.
He further tells me that he could not obey my orders last fall respecting following the Canadians as he had not a Canoe left him at Jack River which proved a very great lofs to the Company as the greatest part of the furs procured by the Canadian Traders in the Neighbourhood were traded by a Person who proceeded to the side Pine, this is not all, those enterprizing Traders got footing among YF home Guards which will prove very detrimental to this Trade in future.
In the afternoon a Canoe of Natives arrived brought an Indian to the factory with his left hand shockingly Mutilated by the bursting of a Gun and am apprehensive the poor Man must undergo Amputation. this accident happened ten days ago.
Mr Isham informs me that the poor Man mentioned the 16th Ult. who lost his hand by the bursting of a Gun Died soon after the accident.
It is a lamentable Circumstance to think that two families of Natives are now left (within twenty days destitute) by the Bursting of Guns . they will of course become dependant on this factory. It shews there cannot be too much care bestowed on examining Weapons sent into this Country as the lives of many depends on the goodnefs of a Gun."

Aug. 5 Sunday
" Clear Weather with SW Breezes
Sent off Six Natives up Nelson River to Hunt for Deer and Six up this River. we have no kind of Provisions left to serve to Men except flour & Scotch Barley.
Engaged two Indians & sent them to Oxford House to bring Mr Sinclair to the factory.
Gales of wind this day tore down part of Launch. All hands securing the same.
In the afternoon Sent Men in boat to the Woods with Towlines & Anchors to secure Rafts."

Aug. 6 Monday
" Part Clear part hazy Breezes SW
Tradesmen repairing Launch. Sailors preparing Block & Launch Tackle against the Ships arrival. Rest packing furs &c."
[In the margin " Young Cow Calved"]

Aug. 7 Tuesday
" Part Clear part Cloudy Variable Breezes from SW to W by N towards evening Rain.
Finished Launch Men variously Employed."

Aug. 8 Wednesday
" Variable Light Airs from WSW to NW by N part Clear part Cloudy
Men variously employed. Had Long Boats Mast step'd and Rigged."

Aug. 9 Thursday
" Cloudy with Showers of Rain.
Early this Morning a Vefsel appeared in the Offing - and came to an Anchor without the Beacon Sands. All hands employed Carrying Wood up the Bank except three afsisting Mr Isham packing of a few Trading Articles."

Aug. 10 Friday
" Part Clear part Cloudy Light Breezes variable
Had small Beacon set on the point of Sand above the Battery - a shoal formed this Season - Men variously Employed - Brig came up and Anchored abreast the factory and Capt. Taylor Landed.
Rob. Wilson Taylor and Will Field Armourer came on shore and put on factory duties.
Mefs Swain & Pruden came from the Eastward Complain very much on the scarcity of Game. Indians arrived."

Aug. 11 Saturday
" fresh Breezes SW part Clear part Cloudy
Severn Cargo landed - only 5300 MB.
Sent men to haul the Seine caught a few Suckers. Fixed Men to Canoes to Convey Goods to Jack River.
The Indians of last night went away as did Mefs Swain and Pruden to their Tent. Indians arrived as did the Hunters of last Sunday."

Aug. 12 Sunday
" Cloudy Weather with Showers of Rain. Variable Breezes NW to SE
Indians of Friday with those of last night went away.
Took Men & Boat accompanied by Capt. Taylor & went to see Men at the Woods."

Aug. 13 Monday
" Variable Breezes all round the Compafs. AM Cloudy - PM fresh Breezes NE
Sent 12 Men to bring home Rafts - Sent Natives to haul the Seine - Mr Tate went up the River to try for Game. Armourer & one Man making Shot. Delivered Capt. Taylor his Signal Instructions & the Brig Beaver dropt down the River. Mr Geo. Sutherland and party came home with their bedding."

Aug. 14 Tuesday
" Strong Gales of wind Ely Raw Cold & Cloudy with continued Rain - Thunder & Lightening.
During last night Men returned with 12 Rafts of fire Wood.
Tradesmen and others variously employed."

Aug. 15 Wednesday
" Cloudy Weather with fresh Breees SW.
Mefs Sutherland & party with Natives hauling Seine at Point of Marsh - No luck. When tide served Mr Isham accompanied by Seven Men in two Canoes Set off for Jack River - Rest carrying wood up Bank. In the Evening Mr Cook two Englishmen and four Natives Arrived in three Canoes. God be praised he brought a little Venison which enabled me once more to give me & my people a taste of Animal food."

Aug. 16 Thursday
" part Clear part Cloudy with Wly Breezes & Showers of Rain.
All hands carrying wood up Bank.
This Morning fifteen men in five Canoes arrived from (the head of Trout River) Oxford House. In the afternoon two Canoes of Natives Arrived with a few furs & peltry.
Sent off Eight Canoes up Nelson to Hunt for Deer."

Aug. 17 Friday
" Early AM Cloudy - afterwards Clear with variable Breezes.
Mr Sutherland and party of Inland Men went to point of Marsh & hauled Seine no luck - Eleven preparing to Raft Wood for the Ship. Rest employed cutting Grafs - work in Garden &c. Three Natives arrived with a little Green Beaver &c."
[In B.239/a/102 it says "Sutherland and party of Indian Men"]

Aug. 18 Saturday
" Thick fog AM afterwards Clear with light Breezes.
Sent Eleven Men to raft home Wood for the Ship.
Traded with Natives of Wednesday & thursday and five Canoes set off.
The Seine hauled as yesterday which produced a few Suckers.
In the afternoon Seven Men in three large Canoes Arrived from the Split Lake loaded with furs and Snow Shoes &c"

Aug. 19 Sunday
" Early AM Cloudy with Mizzling Rain afterwards Clear with variable Breezes"

Aug. 20 Monday
" AM Clear with Variable Breezes PM Cloudy with heavy Rain thunder & lightening.
Mr Sutherland & party hauling Seine - Sent Men for Grafs. three from Nelson River Packing furs. rest variously engaged - Two Indians arrived. Brig dropt to five fathom Hole."

Aug. 21 Tuesday
" Variable Breezes around the Compafs AM foggy Middle part of day Clear latter part Cloudy with Rain.
All hands variously Employed
Two Canoes arrived loaded with Venison. God be praised for these Supplies - Sent part to the Men at Woods and part to Capt. Taylor &c."

Aug. 22 Wednesday
" part Clear part Cloudy with flying Showers AM Light Airs variable PM Clear with NE Breezes Thunder & lightening.
Seven Canoes of Natives arrived to take up their Winters Debts. Necefsity will compell them to wait the Arrival of the Ship as we have no kind of Cloth - Blamkets - or Ammunition left.
All hands Employed - Cutting Grafs making of hay &c."

Aug. 23 Thursday
" Cloudy foggy Weather Variable Breezes PM blowing Strong NE.
Mens Employ as yesterday - part of the Natives traded their Skins for Liquor and Iron Work. Three Canoes of Natives arrived with the flesh of 18 Deer."

Aug. 24 Friday
" Cloudy Weather with light Breezes NE
Mens Employ as yesterday. those at the Woods came home with Six Rafts for the Ships use."

Aug. 25 Saturday
" Early AM Cloudy Middle part of day Clear latter Overcast Variable light Breezes.
All hands variously Employed making Hay carrying Wood up Bank &c. Capt Taylor and two Sailors came on shore, brought up the Carcafs of a White Whale.
Mr Howse went to Tent in the Marsh."

Aug. 26 Sunday
" Clear until towards Evening when Cloudy with Showers of Rain.
Captain Taylor went on board."

Aug. 27 Monday
" Cloudy Raw Cold and thick fog Variable Breezes.
Had remainder of Wood carried up Bank."

Aug. 28 Tuesday
" Cloudy with light Airs NE.
Had wood cut for the Ship - Grafs brought from flats - and Rails affixed around the SW Curtains
A Woman shot on the plantation by an Indian Youth thro Wantonefs, she is wife of the poor Man brought to this place the 3'd Instant."

Aug. 29 Wednesday
" Cloudy foggy & Raw Cold with NE Breezes
Sent Eighteen Men to haul the Seine no luck. Tradesmen variously Employed - others making Shot &c."

Aug. 30 Thursday
" part Clear part Cloudy with variable Breezes
Men variously Employed - making Hay preparing Canoes - Collecting of Stones &c.
In the afternoon Eight Canoes arrived Loaded with Venison."

Aug. 31 Friday
" Clear Weather with NE Breezes
Mens Employ as yesterday."

Sept. 1 1798 Saturday
" Variable Light Breezes part Clear part Cloudy.
Mens Employ as before - Four Canoes of Natives arrived with Deer Skins &c. Capt Taylor & two Sailors came on Shore."

Sept. 2 Sunday
" Cloudy Weather with WSW Breezes.
Four Canoes of Natives arrived with a few Skins &c. Captain Taylor went on board."

Sept. 3 Monday
" Strong Gales NNE Early part of day Cloudy with Rain latter part Clear.
All hands variously Employed in house the early part of day - afterwards clearing plantation - Making Hay into large Stacks - &c."

Sept. 4 Tuesday
" fresh Breezes NNE Early part of day Cloudy latter Clear.
Sent part of Men Stoning rest variously Employed preparing for Inland - About Noon a Vefsel appeared in the Offing & made the Company's Ship Signal. Thanks to God for this blefsing, it has given new life to Every one.
In the Evening three Canoes of Bungees arrived well loaded with furs."

Sept. 5 Wednesday
" fresh Breezes WSW & Variable SSW part Clear part Cloudy.
Mens Employ as yesterday. Part of the Bungees of yesterday paid debts & traded.
In the afternoon the Ship King George Anchored in five fathom hole."

Sept. 6 Thursday
" Light Breezes SW variable Clear
Bungees finished Trade - Sent long Boat down to Ship -
One Canoe of Bungees arrived paid debt & traded.
In the afternoon Capt. Richards and Mr Ballenden Landed.
Both long Boats came up as did the brig."

Sept. 7 Friday
" Light Breezes SW Clear
Both long Boats dropt down to Ship came up & were unloaded.
Brig unloaded & dropt down to Ship
Bungees went away.
Called Council & engaged Men -"

Sept. 8 Saturday
" Wind & Weather the same
Busily employed on Ship and Inland duties no time lost with Crafts
Seven Canoes of Natives arrived with Deer Skins &c
Had Goods packed for Inland &c
fixed Men to Canoes."

Sept. 9 Sunday
" Cloudy Cold Weather with variable Breezes
Three Boats dropt down to Ship - Brig unloaded. Boats came up in the Evening. One of them Stove on the Ships Anchor whereby the Hhd of Sugar for Severn is entirely lost as the Boat sunk near Shore."

Sept. 10 Monday
" Early part of day Cloudy latter Clear.
Busily employed on Ship & inland duties.
No time lost with Craft.
Mr Whitford and four Men in one large Canoe set off for Gordon House.
Brig dropt down to Ship.
Long Boat Repaired - Several Indians went away."

Sept. 11 Tuesday
" clear fine Weather AM with SW Breezes PM Cloudy with Rain Breezes NE.
All the small Craft dropt down to Ship came up & part unloaded.
Brig came up & unloaded.
This morning Tide Mefs Oman - Swain & Pruden accompanied by twenty four Men in Six Canoes loaded with Trading Goods set off to the Upper Settlements.
Four Canoes set off to their Winter Stations."

Sept. 12 Wednesday
" AM Overcast PM Cloudy with Rain Blowing Strong NE.
Too bad Weather for Canoes to leave the factory. Brig dropt down the River & reced Stones for Ballast. Indians put acrofs the River."

Sept. 13 Thursday
" Cloudy Weather AM - fresh Breezes NE afterwards Strong Gales from the same quarter.
All the Small Craft dropt down the River came up & were unloaded."

Sept. 14 Friday
" Strong Gales NE part Clear part Cloudy.
Blows too strong for small Craft to go down to Ship.
When tide served - sent off twelve Men in three large Canoes Loaded with Trading Goods to Oxford House."

Sept. 15 Saturday
" Clear with Sly Breezes
Early this morning Mefs Cook & Tho. Colen accompanied by fourteen Men and Several Natives set off in four Canoes Loaded with Trading Goods for Lake's House.
Sent all the small Craft to the Ship which came up and were unloaded - Loaded the same with part of the Casks homeward bound Cargo."

Sept. 16 Sunday " Part Hazy & part Clear - Light Breezes NNE
All the Small Craft dropt down to Ship and came up Loaded - Brig unloaded & took part of the homeward bound Cargo on board. - Two Natives arrived with packet from Churchill - Wrote Letters and packed up Articles for Mr Stayner in order to send them off on their return tomorrow."

Sept. 17 Monday
" Clear Weather part of the day - part Cloudy with SE Light Breezes.
Brig dropt down the River - All the small Craft unloaded and the two Long Boats sent to the Ship with Stones & Wood - Capt. Richards went on Board.
Sent of the Churchill packet Indians - The Queen Charlotte entered this River and Anchored near her Consort."

Sept. 18 Tuesday
" SE Breezes & variable E by N Clear.
Long Boats came up during the last night & unloaded and all the small Craft dropt down with Stones - Capt. Richards came on Shore - Captain Turnor and Mr Don'd McKay Landed.
Four Men in Large Canoe arrived from Gordon House. Trusted Several Natives their Winters Debts."

Sept. 19 Wednesday
" Clear Weather with SSW Breezes
Busily Employed preparing for the dispatch of the Ship - All the small Craft dropt down the River came up were unloaded - and reced homeward bound Cargo on board in readinefs to drop down to the Ship tomorrow morning. Brig came up. Seven Canoes of Natives set off to their Winters Stations."

Sept. 20 Thursday
" Wind Weather and Mens Employ the same
Preparing for the dispatch of the Ship.
All the Small Craft drop down the River came up and were unloaded & ballast put on board in readinefs for the Ship tomorrow.
Brig came along side of Launch.
Thirteen Canoes of home Guards set off for their Winters quarters."

Sept. 21 Friday
" AM Cloudy with heavy Rain - PM part Clear part Cloudy with flying Showers fresh Breezes Wly.
Long Boats went down to Ship with Ballast & Wood - Too bad weather to send down furs - Brig took in Severn outward bound Cargo. Long Boats came up in the Evening. Made every preparation for closing of packet tomorrow."

Sept. 22 Saturday
" Clear Weather with Wly Breezes.
Sent all the small Craft to the ship with the Pafsengers and their Baggage. Discharged from your Honours Service the Servants as mentioned in List inclosed in Companys packet. - prepared for closing the same. which when Sealed will be delivered to Captain Richards - Delivered up the Keys and Charge of the factory to Mr Ballenden who gave a receipt for the same. God send the Ship King George & Queen Charlotte a safe & Speedy pafsage to England. Amen.
Jos. Colen."


1M161 B.239/a/101 combined with B.239/a/102

Home