" A Journal of the most remarkable Transactions & Occurrences at Hudsons House from 12th September 1780 to 22d May 1781
by Mr Robert Longmoor Master."
[cover]

" Hudsons House
North America
A Journal of transactions and occurrences happening at Hudsons House from Tuesday September 12th 1780 to Tuesday May the 22d 1781, both days inclusive, by Robert Longmoor Master at the said House."
[title page]

Sept. 12 1780
" Tuesday fine Clear weather Wind in the SW quarter. At 9 AM Embark'd at Cumberland House, for Hudsons House with Eight Canoes of Englishmen, twenty two in number to viz. Robert Longmoor, James Elphingston, Malchom Rofs, Magnus Twatt, Charles Isham, Mitchell Omen, William Omen, James Spence Sen., Robert Davey, William Lewtit, James Sanderson, Magnus Annell, James Tate, Thomas Tate, Thomas Johnston, James Spence Jun., Nicholas Wishart, Edward Wishart, William Coupland, William Folster, George Rofs, John Irvin, and one homeguard Indian. paddled about 18 Miles then put up."

Sept. 13
" Wednesday At 6 AM embark'd, hard Gales of wind in the SE quarter. Cloudy weather. At 5 PM put up. Distance about 28 miles. At 11 AM came up to where one of the French Canoes has put up, that has gone past two days ago."

Sept. 14
" Thursday At 5 1/2 AM Embark'd and at 5 PM put up Wind and weather as yesterday."

Sept. 15
" Friday At 6 AM Embark'd. At 9 AM got out and track'd. At 2 PM got in and paddled in Strong Currents. At 5 PM put up fresh Gales Eerly. Distance 18 miles."

Sept. 16
" Saturday fine clear weather. At 5 1/2 AM embark'd. At 6 PM put up. Distance about 25 Miles. Wind Southerly."

Sept. 17
" Sunday fine clear weather. Wind WSW At 5 AM Embark'd and paddled till 3 PM then got out and track'd. At 6 PM put up Distance about 20 miles."

Sept. 18
" Monday fine Clear weather. Wind in the SW quarter. At 5 AM Embark'd track'd till 3 PM then put up where we met two Indian men of whom we Traded 126 lb of dried meat and 170 lb of green meat."

Sept. 19
" Tuesday At 7 AM Embark'd. Small Mizzling Rain. Wind in the SW quarter. At 3 PM hard Rain put up. Distance about 15 miles."

Sept. 20
" Wednesday At 7 AM sett off tracking in Strong Currents, Cloudy weather wind in the SW quarter. Met two Canoes of Indians this day with a small quantity of furrs, but would not proceed to Cumberland House but returned back with us. At 5 PM put up."

Sept. 21
" Thursday At 6 AM sett off tracking in Strong Currents Cloudy weather Wind WNW. At 6 put up, past Seven Tents of Indians this day. Traded some Green Beaver flesh and dry moose flesh."

Sept. 22
" Friday part Cloudy with Small Rain. the latter part Strong Gales of Wind. tracking as before. Distance about 18 Miles."

Sept. 23
" Saturday hard frost. At 8 AM sett off. At noon small mizling Rain. Came up to the Branch. At 5 put up. the french Canoe that was gone before is now laying by here. Who by their dispositions I suppose are afraid to proceed before the rest of their men comes up having heard that there is a great many Indians tenting among the falls."

Sept. 24
" Sunday thick foggy weather. Wind SW At 9 AM sett off. Strong Rappid Currents and Shoal water. Broke two Canoes. At 2 PM put up with hard Rain and to nend Canoes."

Sept. 25
" Monday hard frost with Clear weather. At 8 AM embark'd. At 2 PM came up to two Tents of Indians of whom we traded some provisions. At 5 PM put up and traded Green Beaver flesh from the same Indians and a small quantity of dried Moose flesh."

Sept. 26
" Tuesday At 7 AM embark'd track'd to 11 AM and then got in and paddled to 5 PM and then put up."

Sept. 27
" Wednesday hard frost. At 7 AM embark'd and paddled to 12 AM Came to the French House which was all burned down. Mr Robt. Longmoor and 2 men went over Land to the House to get the Doors hung &c. the rest of the men went round with the Canoes. At 5 PM put up."

Sept. 28
" Thursday At 6 AM embark'd and paddled in Strong Currents & Shoal water with hard Gales of Wind Werly. At 5 PM put up. At Noon Robert Longmoor arrived at Hudson House and this day we had all the Doors upon the Hinges."

Sept. 29
" Friday At 6 1/2 AM embark'd At 10 AM arrived at Hudson House which we found with two of the Beams broke, and all the Roof fallen in. Whether by Accident, Thunder or Lightning or Wind we cannot tell. Twenty Tents of Indians on the Plantation and more expected daily."

Sept. 30
" Saturday Wind Werly fine weather. trading with the Indians of whom we received a few furrs and a little provisions but very hard to please and all very poor."

Oct. 1 1780
" Sunday Much the Same as yesterday. we have now upwards for forty Tents of Indians on the Plantation but very poor and very difficult to please."

Oct. 2
" Monday fine Calm weather. Some part of the Indians trading to go away. the Indians are so very poor for want of their Supplies of Guns, Ammunition, &c last year, that it is very hard dealing with them. All hands except four in the warehouse getting the House clearing and getting Wood for repairing the same. this day 50 Tents on the Plantation."

Oct. 3
" Tuesday Wind and weather as yesterday. All hands working on and for the House. A few Stone Indians arrived with a small quantity of provisions and a few furrs."

Oct. 4
" Wednesday Wind Werly fine clear weather four hands in the warehouse, trading with the Indians of whom we received a few furrs and a small quantity of provisions. All the rest working on and for the House. two or three Tents of Indians gone to meet the frenchmen."

Oct. 5
" Thursday All hands employed as before. in the Evening a few Indians arrived of whom we received a small quantity of provisions Wind and weather as before. Upwards of Thirty Tents of Indians yet remaining on the Plantation."

Oct. 6
" Friday Wind SW with hard Gales Cloudy weather with a few Drops of Rain. Some Indians arrived from acrofs the River, traded a few Skins and a little provisions and went away again. Seven Tents of Indians went away. most part of them went to the frenchmen Who we are informed are building a little below their Old House."

Oct. 7
" Saturday Wind and weather All hands employed as before. Indians trading a little dried meat. Very Poor and Troublesome."

Oct. 8
" Sunday Wind E erly Cloudy weather with Rain. Indians trading what little provisions they had left."

Oct. 9
" Monday Wind in the SE quarter with Small Showers of Rain. All hands employed on and for the House. Six Tents of Indians yet remaining on the plantation."

Oct. 10
" Tuesday Wind and weather as yesterday. All hands employed as yesterday. Some Indians arrived this day with a few furrs."

Oct. 11
" Wednesday All hands employed as before. the Indians of yesterday traded and went away. Wind W erly with a few Showers of Sleet and Rain."

Oct. 12
" Thursday Wind Southerly At night hard Rain. All hands clearing the yard and laying the Canoes up for the Winter with other necefsary Jobbs."

Oct. 13
" Friday Wind Northerly Clear weather. All hands employed clearing the yard amd cutting firewood. two Indian men came for Tobacco but their families coming in is uncertain."

Oct. 14
" Saturday Wind NW part clear part cloudy with Sleet and Rain. All hands cutting firewood. PM arrived two Gangs of Indians but very little with them on account of their not having Supplies in the Spring."

Oct. 15
" Sunday Wind variable Clear weather. Trading with the Indians of yesterday."

Oct. 16
" Monday Wind WNW Clear weather. All the Indians went away. the Carpenter employed fitting up the warehouse, the rest employed clearing the Plantation and cutting of firewood."

Oct. 17
" Tuesday Wind in the NW quarter Clear weather. All hands employed as yesterday. A few Indians arrived with a small quantity of Provisions."

Oct. 18
" Wednesday Wind as before, the fore part of the day much Rain, the after part much Sleet. two Arrived with Green flesh. four Indians came for Tobacco trading what little provisions the Indians had left. All hands employed as before."

Oct. 19
" Thursday Wind as before Clear weather. A few Stone Indians came in with a little provisions. All hands as before."

Oct. 20
" Friday Wind in the SW quarter with hard Gales of wind. Carpenter employed fitting up the warehouse, the rest of the men repairing the Chimneys. A few Stone Indians came in with a little dried meat and a few Skins."

Oct. 21
" Saturday Wind Northerly Clear weather. All hands employed as yesterday PM five Stone Indians came for Tobacco for their Leaders not coming in. five Englishmen, the Homeguard Indians and another Indian, fitted out to go away in the morning to pafs part of the Winter as provisions runs very high, and our quantity of Goods very small. Brandy being always their Cry of which we have but a Small Share, and when thats expended We need neither expect furrs nor provisions, for in Room of 190 Gallons, had we three times that quantity we might make a very good Return; the Stone Indians traded and went away."

Oct. 22
" Sunday Wind in the SW quarter Clear weather with frost. the men fitted out yesterday went away. Plantation clear of Indians the only day since we have been here."

Oct. 23
" Monday Wind and weather as yesterday. Carpenter employed fitting up the House, the rest of the men repairing the Chimneys."

Oct. 24
" Tuesday Wind Southerly Clear weather. The men employed as yesterday two Indian men came in with four or five Skins to trade Ironwork, and to beg Powder Shot &c."

Oct. 25
" Wednesday Wind and weather as yesterday. Carpenter as before the rest gathering firewood."

Oct. 26
" Thursday Wind and weather much the same as before. All hands employed as yesterday. A few Indians came in to trade Tobacco and Ironwork."

Oct. 27
" Friday Wind in the NW quarter fine Clear weather. the Indians traded and went away. the men employed as before."

Oct. 28
" Saturday Do. weather. the men employed as before. no Indians on the Plantation at present."

Oct. 29
" Sunday Wind in the SW quarter. Clear weather."

Oct. 30
" Monday Wind in the SE quarter the fore part Cloudy with Snow the latter part Clear. Carpenter employed fitting up the House the men getting of firewood."

Oct. 31
" Tuesday This day fine clear weather. the men employed as yesterday. no Indians on the Plantation nor no account of the Engluamen that is gone to Hunt. the Natives have burnt all the ground that nothing can Stay on it, their design is that they may get a great deal for provisions as very few is hunting of furrs. Wind in the NW quarter."

Nov. 1 1780
" Wednesday fine Clear weather Wind as before All hands employed as before."

Nov. 2
" Thursday Wind W erly fine clear weather. Carpenter employed fitting up the House. two men sawing Plank. the rest getting firewood."

Nov. 3
" Friday Wind and weather as yesterday. All hands employed as yesterday."

Nov. 4
" Saturday Wind and weather as before. All hands employed as before."

Nov. 5
" Sunday Wind in the NW quarter Blowing hard Cloudy weather."

Nov. 6
" Monday Wind variable from E to SW Cloudy weather. Carpenter edging Boards for the upper flooring. two men at the Pitsaw. the rest getting firewood."

Nov. 7
" Tuesday Wind Northerly Cloudy weather. All hands employ'd as yesterday."

Nov. 8
" Wednesday Wind from ENE to WNW Clear weather and Sharp. Carpenter laying the upper flooring. Some of the people edging Plank the rest getting firewood. At 4 PM two Swampy Ground Stone Indians of them that formerly went down to York fort, came for Tobacco. Who after they had got two Pounds of Tobacco, then they wanted Powder, and got One Pound each for their two Leaders, then they went away dissatisfied on account of their not having the Loan of a Gun, which is not to be trusted in these parts, and besides after all their coming in is very uncertain."

Nov. 9
" Thursday Wind Southerly blowing hard a great deal of Ice going in the River. All hands employed as before. At 2 PM arrived five Stone Indian men and families with a few furrs."

Nov. 10
" Friday Wind Northerly Cloudy weather. All hands employ'd as before. The Stone Indians traded and went away."

Nov. 11
" Saturday Wind in the NW quarter Clear weather and Cold. All hands employed as before."

Nov. 12
" Sunday Wind SW Cloudy weather. the River fast in the morning but at noon broke up again with hard Gales of Wind."

Nov. 13
" Monday Wind Southerly Cloudy weather with some Snow.Carpenter employed laying the upper flooring. part of the people employed with him. the rest getting firewood."

Nov. 14
" Tuesday Wind and weather as yesterday. All hands employed as yesterday."

Nov. 15
" Wednesday Wind Northerly Cloudy weather with mizzling Snow. All hands employed as before."

Nov. 16
" Thursday Wind variable all round the Compafs Cloudy weather. Carpenter and some of the people laying the upper flooring, the rest falling Timber pieces and chopping them."

Nov. 17
" Friday Wind from NE to NW fore part Cloudy the latter part Clear. All hands employed as yesterday. Three Indians arrived from acrofs the River, starving for want of provisions, the Ground being all burnt and no Snow on the Ground, so as they cant hunt nor see a track."

Nov. 18
" Saturday Clear weather with Wind in the NW quarter. two men at the Pitsaw, four squaring Timberpieces, two with the Carpenter, the rest cutting firewood."

Nov. 19
" Sunday fine Clear weather Wind at South Very little Ice in the River."

Nov. 20
" Monday Wind E erly with Snow two men at the Pitsaw two with the Carpenter laying the upper flooring, the rest getting firewood."

Nov. 21
" Tuesday Wind E erly Cloudy weather. All hands employed as before. the five Englishmen and the Homeguard Indian arrived, Starving having seen no Buffallo, the ground all being burnt up. they have seen no Indians this 19 days and what they saw was in the same Condition with themselves all starving."

Nov. 22
" Wednesday Wind variable in the NW quarter. Cloudy weather. All hands employed as before."

Nov. 23
" Thursday Wind NE Cloudy weather All hands employed as before."

Nov. 24
" Friday Wind Southerly Clear weather, One Englishman and the Homeguard Indian a hunting. two Red Deer kill'd by the Englishman, the rest employed as before."

Nov. 25
" Saturday Wind E erly with Snow. the Carpenter employed as before. Some of the People away bringing home flesh, the rest cutting firewood."

Nov. 26
" Sunday Wind about ENE with Snow all day. PM arrived a few Stone Indians with a few furrs and a little provisions. the Whole of the Indians has been complaining of the White flux ever since I have been up this year."

Nov. 27
" Monday Wind in the NW quarter clear weather. the River fast opposite here. AM came some Southward Indians with a little Green Moose flesh. Trading with the Indians."

Nov. 28
" Tuesday the Indians went off. the Carpenter laying the upper flooring, two men afsisting him, the rest cutting firewood. Cold weather with Wind at NNE and Clear."

Nov. 29
" Wednesday wind in the NW quarter very sharp weather. the men employed as before."

Nov. 30
" Thursday Wind SW Clear weather and very Cold. All hands employed as before."

Dec. 1 1780
" Friday Wind Southerly Clear weather with fresh Gales All Hands employed as before. two Indian men came in from the Southward had been Six days upon their Journey with a few Skins and traded nothing but Brandy to carry away with them to their families."

Dec. 2
" Saturday Wind Northerly Clear weather. Some of the men employed setting up Wolf and fox Traps along Shore. two men trying to take a Beaver House but had no succefs. the rest employed cutting firewood. the Indians traded but not gone away."

Dec. 3
" Sunday Wind Southerly Clear weather. the Indians went off. the Homeguard Indian went to go about three or four mile with them to bring back the Sled they had the Loan of, and the Gun he had the Loan of he took with him, but did not return at night as expected."

Dec. 4
" Monday Wind in the SW quarter fore part Clear latter part Cloudy. two Stone Indian men came for Tobacco for two Leaders who always come to us and has not been in this year yet, but as yet they are afar off. had been Seven Nights upon their Journey. Sent two Pounds of Tobacco to each. the Carpenter laying the upper flooring, two afsisting him, five looking after and setting up Traps, but as yet nothing has been catched in them, the Wolves foxes &c being all Shy being nipped? with the Indians nigh hand, and no Guns can be trusted for Indians pafsing and repafsing. the rest of the men cutting firewood. the homeguard Indian not yet returned."

Dec. 5
" Tuesday Wind in the NE quarter forepart Clear latter part Blowing hard with thick Snow and drift. two of the men went to see if they could get any intelligence of the Homeguard Indian, who is not returned but the day turning out excefsive bad oblidged them to return. four men Chopping Timberpieces. Carpenter employed as before, the rest cutting firewood. the Stone Indians went away."

Dec. 6
" Wednesday Wind as before. Blowing hard and Cold. Carpenter laying the upper flooring, two men afsisting him. two men at the Pitsaw, the rest cutting firewood. the Homeguard Indian not returned."

Dec. 7
" Thursday Wind Southerly Clear weather and Sharp. All hands employed as before. PM arrived three Indian men and the Homeguard Indian with 119 lb of green moose flesh, but no furrs except one Grizzled Bear. No Indians coming in with Provisions this long time and not having above 20 days provisions in the House will oblidge all hands to come to Short allowance if no Indians comes in in a weeks time as there is no way to send any Englishmen out."

Dec. 8
" Friday hard Gales at South with Sharp weather two men at the Pitsaw. this day the Carpenter finished the upper flooring, the rest of the men cutting firewood. the Indians went off this morning but I cannot send any men with them, as they are not trusty Indians."

Dec. 9
" Saturday the men employed as before except the Carpenter who is making a Hatch for the upper floor. nothing catched in our traps as yet. Wind in the NW quarter."

Dec. 10
" Sunday Very Sharp clear weather with wind in the NW quarter."

Dec. 11
" Monday Do. weather. the Carpenter and two men away in the woods falling and Splitting Snow Shoe frames. two men at the Pitsaw cutting Boards the rest cutting firewood."

Dec. 12
" Tuesday Wind in the NW quarter Cold weather and Sharp. the men employed cutting firewood the Carpenter making Snow Shoes, the Homeguard Indian and one Englishman away hunting but no luck."

Dec. 13
" Wednesday hard Gales of Wind at SE with thick Snow all these 24 Hours. the Carpenter making Snow Shoe frames the rest cutting firewood."

Dec. 14
" Thursday AM three Indians arrived for Tobacco, one a Southward Indian, the other two of the Indians lately brought in to trade, two tents of them to arrive at noon and they informed me that there was twelve Tents of them in all and ten frenchmen. the frenchmen stopped them and killed some of their Dogs and would not let them come in here. As Soon as I heard of it I went off with four men to see if pofsible to meet them, but did not meet them as they had gone another track. At 4 PM I returned the Indians just arrived with a few furrs and a little provisions. the men at home employed as the day before. Sharp Clear weather with wind at NW."

Dec. 15
" Friday At 6 AM I sent of ten men armed to see if pofsible to meet the Indians and if they chused to come here, that the frenchmen should not stop them, and that if they made any resistance to pay them accordingly as they deserved, but as they was afraid to keep the proper Road they went out of the way. So that my men returned without having the Satisfaction to see them. the Indians trading and at noon went off. the Carpenter making Snow Shoes. the rest of the men cutting firewood. Clear Sharp weather wind in the NW quarter."

Dec. 16
" Saturday The men part employed getting Wood for Sleds and part getting firewood. At noon arrived three men and three Women with some furrs to trade. Tobacco and Brandy but no Provisions, only One Red Deer which they killed nigh at hand. Which our Men is to bring to morrow. Cloudy weather with Wind at SE."

Dec. 17
" Sunday thick weather with Wind at NE four men bringing home Red Deers flesh."

Dec. 18
" Monday the Indians trading PM One Imdian arrived for Tobacco, another from the South Side of the River who had been hunting and kill'd two Red Deer nigh to Here. He is a hunter belonging to the Canadian Traders but it is all one to me, where they come from, if they bring me either furrs or Provisions. this day I have fitted Out Seven Englishmen to go away with the Indians that came on Saturday the rest cutting firewood. All this 24 Hours thick Snow and hard Gales of Wind at NE."

Dec. 19
" Tuesday Wind at NE thick weather with heavy Snow. the Indians arrived and trading for Liquor. All the Indians drunk on the Plantation. One of the Indians that arrived on Saturday a hunting and kill'd a Red Deer. Seven men away bringing home flesh. the rest cutting firewood."

Dec. 20
" Wednesday Wind SE thick weather with Snow. two men with two Horses away bringing home Red Deers flesh. the Indians trading for Liquor and to go away. the rest of the men cutting firewood."

Dec. 21
" Thursday the Indians all trading for Brandy and what not but Brandy, Tobacco, Powder and Ball for the most part. At present I have heard of a good prospect of Trade amongst these Indians which is more than I have heard since I have been here this Season before. But before Indians comes that is far off We have always such a small Stock of Goods, that it is done before they come in, And few men; And when Provisions is scarce as this year is, it takes One third for Provisions and giving to Leaders for encouragement. The men cutting firewood. Thick Hazy weather Wind at South."

Dec. 22
" Friday Wind at SE thick hazy weather. this day part of the Indians trading. PM all done and gone off. James Elphingston, five more Englishmen and the Homeguard Indian gone with them to pafs the remainder of the Winter as Provisions cannot scarce be got, the rest of the men getting firewood."

Dec. 23
" Saturday thick weather with some Snow. the Carpenter making Snow Shoes the rest of the men cutting firewood. Wind at South."

Dec. 24
" Sunday fine Clear weather Wind SW PM two Indians arrived with Red Deers flesh two whole Ones but small."

Dec. 25
" Monday fine clear weather Wind at South AM the Indians went off."

Dec. 26
" Tuesday Wind at South Clear weather. Carpenter employed making Snow Shoes PM One Indian arrived for Tobacco for One Tent of Indians that is coming in Starving, they have eat three Dogs and part of their Beaver Skins for want of provisions, the rest of the men cutting firewood."

Dec. 27
" Wednesday Wind at SW fine Clear weather the men employed as the day before. PM the Indians arrived but two men have not traded any thing this day."

Dec. 28
" Thursday fine Clear weather. wind at South. the Indians traded what Skins they had remaining except three for Tobacco and it is daily most the same case. PM the Indians went away. Carpenter making Snow Shoes. the rest cutting firewood."

Dec. 29
" Friday fine Clear weather Wind in the SW quarter. All hands employed as yesterday."

Dec. 30
" Saturday Wind at NE Clear weather All hands employed as before."

Dec. 31
" Sunday All these 24 Hours thick weather with Snow and hard Gales at SE."

Jan. 1 1781
" Monday the men employed cutting firewood. Carpenter making Snow Shoes thick Snow all this day with hard Gales of Wind at SE."

Jan. 2
" Tuesday All this 24 Hours thick weather with Wind at SE the Carpenter employed in the Woods getting Birch for Sleds. four men with him, the rest cutting of firewood. no account of any Indians at present."

Jan. 3
"Wednesday thick Rimy weather and some small Snow with Wind in the SW quarter. All hands employed as yesterday."

Jan. 4
"Thursday fine clear weather with Wind in the SE quarter. the Carpenter and four men in the woods, Splitting and Chopping of Wood for Sleds to go to Cumberland House, the rest getting firewood."

Jan. 5
" Friday the Carpenter and all Hands employed as yesterday Clear sharp weather with Wind in the NE quarter."

Jan. 6
" Saturday fore part clear latter part Cloudy with some Snow, Sharp weather. Wind from E to SSE the Carpenter making of Sleds and three men chopping of them, the rest cutting firewood."

Jan. 7
" Sunday fore part Cloudy latter part Clear and Sharp with Wind in the NE quarter."

Jan. 8
" Monday Wind NW sharp clear weather. two men splitting Birch for Sleds. the Carpenter making Sleds, the rest of the men cutting firewood."

Jan. 9
" Tuesday AM thick weather with Snow. All hands employed as yesterday. PM three Indian men arrived from the Beaver Country with a few furrs for Brandy Tobacco. they give the same account as what I have had all this Season before, of Indians starving, and have eat up all their Dogs, and cannot come in for want of provisions."

Jan. 10
" Wednesday the Indians trading for Brandy but nothing else and our Brandy is so little that it is scarce worth coming here with such a small quantity. PM three Indian men and their families arrived from within, they have neither furrs nor provisions, but almost starved for want, the Carpenter making Snow Shoes, the rest of the men cutting firewood, cloudy weather Wind at SW."

Jan. 11
" Thursday Clear weather Wind at South. the Indians done trading but on the Plantation, the Carpenter employed as yesterday. the rest falling firewood."

Jan. 12
" Friday thick weather with Wind at NW the Indians that arrived on Tuesday went off, the Starved Indians as yet on the Plantation. PM three Stone Indians arrived for Tobacco from the same Leaders that two young men arrived from the 4th December the? morrow at noon to arrive. the men employed as yesterday."

Jan. 13
" Saturday AM Twelve Stone Indian men of them that bring in most of the Provisions, But at present they are starving. after they had something to Eat, One of them fell down in a Swoon, and was for some time before he came to himself. they have a few Wolves and foxes to trade Powder, Guns, Ball and Tobacco they have been 14 days in coming from their families. the men cutting firewood. Clear weather Wind at NE."

Jan. 14
" Sunday fore part trading with the Indians. At noon finish'd trading, the Indians all ready to go off next morning, hard Gales of Wind with Snow from the NW quarter."

Jan. 15
" Monday the Stone Indians went off the men employed cutting firewood Cold weather with Wind at NE blowing hard."

Jan. 16
" Tuesday thick weather with Snow Wind in the NE quarter five men making Ready to go down to Cumberland House the rest cutting firewood."

Jan. 17
" Wednesday AM the men that goes to Cumberland House getting ready to go of in the morning, there allowance served out, the rest of the men cutting firewood. PM At 6 oClock two Stone Indians arrived entirely Starved and left their Wives behind them, they have been 7 nights on their Journey and nothing to put in their Mouths. only Dogs which is now expended. very Sharp Cloudy weather always with Snow and Rime. Wind at NW."

Jan. 18
" Thursday this morning the Pacquet sett off for Cumberland House and I sent One man to bring the Indians that is starved and not able to walk to the House. the rest cutting firewood. thick Rimy weather with Wind at NW."

" The Copy of the General Letter Hudsons House Jan. 18th 1781
Sir
This comes with my Compliments to you, hoping this will find you and all under your Command in good health as thank God we are in at present, but we are very like to be in a very bad situation for provisions, as I have not at present above 700 lb of Beat meat and 200 lb of Dry meat. I had always hopes of some coming in untill the last Saturday. that the Indians I trusted to arrived quite starving, and have eat part of their Dogs coming in, and there is no Indians that has been here that will stay about here to Hunt, the Ground is all burnt, and no Buffalo, the Natives burnt it as they was nigh hand in the fall and far from the Beaver Country in purpose that they might get a great price for provisions, but great part of them has payed for it since, by Hunger. and oblidged to go far off. I have not had above 300 lb Wt of Provisions from the Stone Indians this Winter and but very few furrs, as you know when Provisions is scarce, they cannot hunt furrs. I have had all of the Provisions at a very dear Rate, and for the most part Brandy, and oblidged to give them Ammunition for nothing. My Trade at this time is very little above 2000.
Sir
I hope that if pofsible that you can spare any Brandy you will send by the Bearers as much as pofsible you can, and 56 lb of low India, Shot Bristol about 14 lb, and if you can spare four or five Dozen of Roach handled Knives, as for any thing else I dont stand in much need. I sent Six men out the first of the Winter, but in one months absence, they returned almost starving. The 22d of last month, I sent of Six men and the Homeguard Indian with the Indians to find themselves. I arrived at Hudsons House Sept. the 28th with the Carpenter and One man, to have the Doors put on, as there was a great number of Indians nigh hand and two Tents on the Plantation. I found the Roof fallen in and two Beams broke which we repaired as fast as pofsible and cut plank and laid the upper floor. I stopped the men a great deal longer than what I would, thinking to have sent you better news, but I am oblidged to send them as it is those men. I have served full allowance for 12 days but as soon as these men sets off, All hands is to be at Short allowance. All the men behaved themselves extremely well and very brisk in coming up in the fall, or had the Frenchmen been up before us we should have been starved all the year. So no more at present , but I conclude wishing Succefs to theCompany's Affairs and Health and Happinefs to you and all under your Command.
Sir
Your most Humble Servant
Robert Longmoor."

Jan. 19
" Friday thick Snow all day and drift. I am oblidged to send one man to cut wood for the Starved Indians to keep them from freezing. the rest of the men cutting firewood. NB. All Hands served out Short allowance. Dry meat 6 lb, Beat meat 6 lb and fat 2lb. hard Gales of Wind at NE."

Jan. 20
" Saturday hard Gales of Wind at NW and thick Drift. the men employed cutting firewood."

Jan. 21
" Sunday fine Clear weather with Wind at NW and very Cold the Starved Indians as yet untraded."

Jan. 22
" Monday fore part Clear Wind in the NW quarter latter part Cloudy. the men employed cutting firewood. At 5 PM arrived four Indian men with a few Beaver Skins, Starving, and left part of their furrs by the Way for Hunger and wants to trade Provisions."

Jan. 23
" Tuesday this day part of the Indians traded; and part not able to trade. the men cutting firewood. Cloudy weather Wind NW Sharp weather."

Jan. 24
" Wednesday AM some of the Indians went away and part not traded will not go away untill others arrive for fear of Starving. fine Clear weather Wind NW the men all away falling wood."

Jan. 25
" Thursday this day two Indians a hunting but killed nothing they are in such a miserable Condition that at night they are afraid to lay down for fear of being killed and Eat before day and in the situation I am in, I can help them very little. fine Clear weather but Cold Wind at South latter part of the day Cloudy. the men cutting of firewood."

Jan. 26
" Friday the men cutting firewood, three Indian men a huntg One killed a Red Deer Wind variable from SW to SE and clear weather."

Jan. 27
" Saturday four men fetching home flesh, the rest cutting firewood. the Indians hunting kill'd a Red Deer? which they keep'd for themselves. Cloudy weather with Snow and Drift. wind at North."

Jan. 28
" Sunday Cloudy weather with some Snow Wind from North to W and warm."

Jan. 29
" Monday this day the Indians a hunting. One Moose and one Red Deer kill'd. the men cutting firewood. Cloudy weather with Wind from South to WSW variable."

Jan. 30
" Tuesday five men bringing home green meat. Half the Red Deer and the Offal of the Moose, the Hunters keeps for their own families. the rest of the men cutting firewood. Cloudy weather with Wind at South and some mizzling Snow."

Jan. 31
" Wednesday this day the men employed cutting firewood. no Indians hunting this day, All tired with the Deep Snow and bad walking. Cloudy weather with small Snow. Wind variable from S to SE and ESE."

Feb. 1 1781
" Thursday the men employed as yesterday two Indians a hunting but has killed nothing. Hard Gales of Wind at NW and very Cold."

Feb. 2
" Friday fine Clear weather Wind at WNW the men employed cutting firewood. two Indians hunting but killed nothing."

Feb. 3
" Saturday AM One Indian arrived for Tobacco for some Southward Indians and two Stone Indians, Coming in, not to arrive untill to morrow. the men cutting firewood. Wind variable from SW to NW."

Feb. 4
" Sunday this day the Indians arrived, but all starving as before. A few with Beaver Skins and some Wolves and small foxes. Clear weather Wind at NE two Indian men gone off for five or Six days to hunt and one Englishman."

Feb. 5
" Monday the Indians all trading for Brandy Tobacco and Ball and some Cloth. the men attending the natives going out and in, part of them drunk, at last they traded amongst them all 81 lb of half dry meat which was all they had. Cloudy weather Wind variable Southerly."

Feb. 6
" Tuesday AM the Indians went off, fine clear weather and Sharp in the morning but warm in the middle of the day. the men cutting firewood. Wind at WNW."

Feb. 7
" Wednesday this day the men employed packing of furrs. PM the Englishman that I sent away with the Indians to hunt returned as they have had no Chance of killing any thing and was starving, and they are gone farther off to see what they can do. Cloudy weather Wind at SE."

Feb. 8
" Thursday All hands employed packing of furrs, the fore part Cloudy with some Snow. PM clear weather Wind at South."

Feb. 9
" Friday the men employed cutting firewood. Cloudy all these 24 Hours. Wind variable from SW to ESE."

Feb. 10
" Saturday Cloudy weather with hard Gales of Wind at NE and flying Showers of Snow. the men employed carrying home dry wood. five Indians lying as yet starving on the Plantation."

Feb. 11
" Sunday fresh Gales of Wind at S and SW with flying Clouds."

Feb. 12
" Monday thick Cloudy weather Wind in the SW quarter. the men cutting firewood."

Feb. 13
" Tuesday this day three Small Gangs of Indians arrived all from different quarters, but most from the Beaver Country and three of them from the Barren Ground, and all cannot make 60 made Beaver. the men employed taking care of the Indians. Wind in the NW quarter."

Feb. 14
" Wednesday AM two Indians arrived from hunting for men to bring home meat. five men went off with them, as it is far off. to morrow I expect them to return if pofsible. Clear weather. Wind at NW five of the Indian men went off.PM traded 29 lb of half dry Beaves flesh."

Feb. 15
" Thursday the men at home falling firewood. One Indian man traded ready go of to morrow morning. At 6 PM our men arrived with five Sleds loaded with meat part of it moose and part Buffalloe, part of two Beasts, of which they must save part for them selves. We must continue at short allowance, it is better long little than soon to be at nothing. Clear weather. Wind variable from NW to NE."

Feb. 16
" Friday the men employed cutting firewood. Cold weather with wind at NW."

Feb. 17
" Saturday AM excefsive Cold with Wind at South untill about noon, and then a little more mild, Wind variable but a Serene Sky. the Indians could not go to hunt. PM the men carrying home dry Wood."

Feb. 18
" Sunday Very Cold but not so Cold as yesterday. Wind variable from S to SE Served out two men 40 lb Beat meat and fat 12 lb to go and meet the men coming from Cumberland House. they are to sett off to morrow morning."

Feb. 19
" Monday the men cutting firewood. PM the men arrived from Cumberland House with Brandy Gallons 22 1/4, Shot Bristol 18 lb, Low India 57 lb and Roach Knives 48 which is all Mr Tomison says he can spare, which I very well believe, as it is hard to get Indians to go down, and much harder when Brandy and other Goods is not in being. So that Only for want of men and Goods, is all that stands in your Honours way, but much more in your Honours Input masters here and at Cumberand House, Your Honour's is unacquainted in the Country, and none that is master at the Principal Forts, is any Judge of your Honours Settlements Inland only them that is in the place being. wind NW Clear Cold weather."

" Copy of the General Letter
Cumberland House February 4th 1781
Sir
By the arrival of five men on the first Instant I received your kind favour Dated the 18th Jan. which gave me great pleasure to hear that you and all under your Direction was in good Health which happinefs thank God we enjoy here.
As to Provisions, I never saw a greater scarcity among the natives then what has been this year. I have had no more than 6 sides of moose flesh brought in this Winter, Rabbits and Partridges scarce any to be got, and fish not so plenty as usual. I have been oblidged to send Provisions to Starved Indians before they came to the House and maintain them while here, also to give them a supply to carry them away, which has reduced my small Stock greatly. If Provisions should grow plenty with you in the Spring, you will please to trade about the same quantity for this place, as you did last year and more if pofsible, as in all probability I may not be able to get any quantity here. You will also endeavour to get as many Indians as you pofsibly can to afsist in carrying down furrs, and tell them from me that I shall preserve a litte Brandy for them against that time.

Our Trade at this place is upwards of 5000 made Beaver including what was left last year, and there is a daily expectation of more as there is no Canadians nearer to us than where the Dutchman Winter'd last year.

I have sent by the Bearers, the following Articles of Trading Goods, viz. Brandy, Gallons 22 1/4, Shot Bristol 18 lb, Low Indian 57 lb and Roach Knives 48 which is all I can spare, the Brandy Especially, as you know it is very difficult to get Indians to afsist in carrying down furrs when there is Brandy, but much more so when there is none. I conclude wishing great Succefs to the Companys Affairs, health and happinefs to you and all under your Command
your most Obed. Humble Servant
William Tomison
PS Please to bring down with you the Pitsaw and spade."

Feb. 20
" Tuesday Clear weather Wind at South the men cutting firewood."

Feb. 21
" Wednesday Wind at South fine clear warm day. the men cutting firewood. two Old men went away down to the French House with their furrs as I had no Guns to trade."

Feb. 22
" Thursday fine Clear weather Wind at South the men cutting firewood. two Indians hunting and killed two Red Deer."

Feb. 23
" Friday AM 6 men went off to bring home meat. the Hunters only keeped the Offal for themselves, the men that was at home cutting firewood fine Clear weather Wind at South."

Feb. 24
" Saturday the men employed clearing the yard of snow fine Clear weather. Wind at NW."

Feb. 25
" Sunday PM two Indian men arrived with about 70 lb of Provisions, Dry meat and Beat meat. fine clear weather Wind at SE with hard Gales."

Feb. 26
" Monday fresh Gales of Wind at SE the Indians as yet not gone off, the men cutting firewood."

Feb. 27
" Tuesday AM one Indian arrived for Tobacco for one Leader and three men from the Beaver river. PM two young men arrived for Tobacco for two Tents of fall Indians, that is to come in to morrow, no Provisions but some Wolves and foxes. I have heard from the Beaver Indians, that nigh where they came from, they have eat their Horses and Dogs and part of them died after for want. the men clearing the Plantation. Wind at South."

Feb. 28
" Wednesday the Beaver Indians a trading. PM the fall Indians arrived, the men cutting firewood. thick Snow all this day with Wind at SE."

Mar. 1 1781
" Thursday AM the Indians trading. All the men attending the Indians. Some Drunk and some not. the fall Indians trading for Ironwork and Tobacco. Clear weather and Cold. Wind at NE."

Mar. 2
" Friday the fall Indians went off and Beaver Indians. PM two Beaver Indians arrived and traded about 12 Beaver and went off directly. no Provisions with any, But all complaining of Starving. Wind SW the men clearing the Plantation."

Mar. 3
" Saturday three young men arrived for Tobacco for three Leaders that is to come in to morrow morning. they say they have some provisions with them, which I am very glad to hear of. the men cutting firewood. hard Gales of Wind at South all these 24 Hours."

Mar. 4
" Sunday AM the Indians arrived. PM the men all attending the Indians all drunk. At 8 PM they wanted to force the Gates and come in to take what they pleased. they had ten Guns loaded, Some with Ball, Some with Slugs and some Bristol Shot. They cut the Gates and likewise some of the Stockades. the first Gun presented I broke, and then took all the rest from them, and their Knives and Bayonets, and four I confined in the House, which was the Ringleaders, for sometime. And then as I had all their Arms I let them out. Those is the same Villains that killed the Frenchmen and Robbed them two years ago, but if in Case one Englishman should be killed I will not spare one Indian that I know has any hand in it but as they was smartly received, and having no Benefit, only some hard words, and one Gun broke and all their Knives and Bayonets taken from them, I think it is over, But I am all ready if it should happen, and every man here the same, for to defend our masters property and our own Lives. wind at South."

Mar. 5
" Monday All quiet, the Indians trading a little Provisions for Tobacco and Ironwork, no Powder nor Ball will I trade with them. the men employed attending the Indians. Clear weather Wind S."

Mar. 6
" Tuesday this morning at 6 AM, the Indians went all off quietly and no bad words. fine Clear weather. Wind at South. the men cutting firewood."

Mar. 7
" Wednesday thick Snow all day. Wind NE with hard Gales. the men cutting firewood. At 8 PM two young men arrived with a few Beaver for Tobacco and Brandy, nothing else."

Mar. 8
" Thursday AM the Indians went off. the men cutting firewood. Wind at South but very Cold."

Mar. 9
" Friday Six men packing furrs. the rest cutting firewood. hard Gales of Wind at South and very Cold."

Mar. 10
" Saturday hard Gales of Wind at NW and Cloudy the men cutting firewood."

Mar. 11
" Sunday AM two young men arrived for Tobacco from the fall Indians that is only lately brought in to kill furrs, but they are Starving, they have mostly Small Colour'd foxes, and but very few Wolves. Hard Gales of Wind from NE variable to W. PM."

Mar. 12
" Monday AM the Indians traded and went away. PM five men arrived from the Beaver Country with some furrs and some provisions. the men employed cutting firewood. All these 24 Hours blowing very hard at South and very Cold."

Mar. 13
" Tuesday AM the Indians went away. thick Snow with fresh Gales of Wind at NE all day. PM One Indian arrived for Tobacco. At 5 PM the Indians arrived with about 200 lb Wt of Beat meat and 259 lb Green moose flesh, but no furrs. NOW as there is some appearance of Provisions, and the men has been a long time at Short Allowance, and as they saw it was neccefsary they never had any Reflections all the time, I shall serve full Allowance as long as pofsible I can afford to do it."

Mar. 14
" Wednesday AM the Indians traded and went off. the men employed cutting firewood. fresh Gales of Wind at South and very Cold."

Mar. 15
" Thursday AM hard Gales of Wind at ESE the men cutting firewood. this day served out whole allowance to the men. PM hard Gales with very thick Snow all the remainder of the day."

Mar. 16
" Friday AM the men employed clearing the Plantation of Snow. PM two Indians arrived for Tobacco, they have some Provisions, but no furrs, part of them is for the French House, and part to go back from here, So that the House shall be Open for them when they call all night, to get as much from them as I can. Clear weather but Cold. Wind at South."

Mar. 17
" Saturday AM the Indians trading Provisions for Brandy, Cloth and Tobacco. PM all finished trading. the men cutting firewood. thick Snow all day. Wind at SE."

Mar. 18
" Sunday AM the Indians went away. fine Clear weather Wind at NW but rather Cold for the Season of the year. at Noon three Tents of Indians arrived from the French House, and in hunting by the way, they killed some Red Deer, of which they traded 180 lb for Brandy. Robert Longmoor is very bad with the Bloody flux."

Mar. 19
" Monday the men employed bringing home dry wood, fresh Gales of Wind at South and very Cold. PM two men and one Woman arrived from the Southward, Six days journey, and had with them only 18 made Beaver, traded in Cloth and Tobacco ready to go of in the morning. One Indian man and his Wife came from within with moose flesh. Robert Longmoor is the same as yesterday and without any medicine that is known for the Bloody flux."

Mar. 20
" Tuesday the men cutting firewood. the Indians traded and went away. At 9 AM moderate Breezes at NW and more mild than for some time past. Robert Longmoor as yet no better."

Mar. 21
" Wednesday Wind NW and extremely Cold. the Indians not able to go away for their Children freezing. the men cutting firewood. Robert Longmoor much the same as before."

Mar. 22
" Thursday AM Wind at South. the Coldest day that has been in this quarter for some years by the Indians account and all here. the men cutting firewood. PM the Cold not so severe. Robert Longmoor a little better."

Mar. 23
" Friday AM very Cold PM a little milder. the Indians went away. the men cutting firewood. At this time last year I had a great deal of Canoe work made, but now the Snow is so much that Indians cannot come in to know whether I have any to build or not. Wind variable in the NW quarter. Robert Longmoor almost got the Better of his illnefs."

Mar. 24
" Saturday Nicholas Wishart taken very bad with the Bloody flux but did not Complain untill this morning, expecting to have got the Better of it, this day he has taken Physick for it, the men cutting firewood, no Indians on the Plantation at present, only two Old Leaders that is staying for some of their Children to come in. fresh Gales of Wind at South and Cold weather."

Mar. 25
" Sunday AM very thick Snow with hard Gales of Wind at ESE and thick Drift. At 3 PM clear weather with Do. Wind as yet. Nicholas Wishart as yesterday."

Mar. 26
" Monday AM very hard Gales of Wind at SE with Snow. the men employed cutting firewood. PM little Wind and variable to S and SSW Cloudy weather. Nicholas Wishart rather worse than yesterday. William Coupland, complains of the same disorder this morning."

Mar. 27
" Tuesday the men employed getting dry wood. fine Clear weather Wind at south. PM At 5 three Indian men with some Provisions trading for Brandy."

Mar. 28
" Wednesday the men cutting firewood. fine Clear weather wind at South. a great deal of Snow gone off this day. the Indians as yet on the Plantation but not trading, So that I expect they intend to go to the french House as one of them is a Leader with them."

Mar. 29
" Thursday At 7 AM the Indians went off to the french House, traded nothing but two Small Beaver Coats and some Beat meat. the men cutting firewood. fine warm weather. Wind at NW a great deal of Snow gone off this day."

Mar. 30
" Friday the men cutting firewood. One Indian and his Wife arrived for Englishmen to bring Birch Rine from where they are, two Samples brought with them. fine Clear weather Wind at NW and a great deal of Snow gone off the Ground."

Mar. 31
" Saturday the men employed as yesterday. three men getting Shoes made to go for Birch Rine with the Indians the fore part of the day Cloudy, the latter part Clear, Wind variable from E to SE."

Apr. 1 1781
" Sunday the Indians went off. Will. Lewtit, Edward Wishart and Thomas Johnston, gone with them for Birch Rine. At 4 AM very heavy thunder. Clear weather. At 1 PM hard Gales of Wind and Snow. At 4 PM Clear weather."

Apr. 2
" Monday AM Robert Longmoor and four men falling and splitting wood for Canoes, the men at home clearing the Plantation. One Indian a hunting killed a moose of which I am to get half and the rest for their own families. Very hard Gales of Wood at South and warm. the most part of the Snow gone."

Apr. 3
" Tuesday two men bringing home meat, the rest employed as yesterday hard Gales of Wind at WNW. PM One Indian arrived from where Our men is, in three day they are to arrive. 19 Tents of Indians in Company. Some I am in hopes will build Canoes as I have only a little Brandy saved for them to trade, and a little for encouragement to get them down if pofsible. One Indian a hunting and killed One moose for which I am to send for part to morrow."

Apr. 4
" Wednesday AM three men went for flesh. the rest clearing the Plantation and burning the Rubbish. Cloudy weather, Wind from ESE to S. At 4 PM blowing hard with thick Snow."

Apr. 5
" Thursday the men employed falling next winters firewood. Cloudy at times and at intervals clear. Wind variable from E to S."

Apr. 6
" Friday Robert Longmoor and two men getting Wooden work for Canoes, the rest employed as yesterday. fine Clear weather, Wind at WNW. this day we saw both Swans and Geese flying."

Apr. 7
" Saturday the men employed as before. Robert Longmoor and two men as before. fine Clear weather Wind variable from ESE to SSE."

Apr. 8
" Sunday AM thick Snow At 1 PM left off Snowing. Wind ESE with hard Gales."

Apr. 9
" Monday AM thick Snow. At 2 PM rather lefs. the men employed cutting firewood. Wind NE."

Apr. 10
" Tuesday One Indian hunting killed a moose which I am to have part of. Cloudy weather Wind at ESE. the men cutting firewood."

Apr. 11
" Wednesday AM the Englishmen arrived and 20 Tents of Indians in Company with them, these will finish my Goods and Brandy the Indians all starving. All drunk the men attending them going out and in. Cloudy weather with Wind at SE. the moose that was killed yesterday I had none of as the Indians was all starving."

Apr. 12
" Thursday AM the Indians went all down to the Canadians. Only three men that intends to build Canoes. my Goods is all done only some Kettles, Ice Chizzels, and a little Tobacco to give for Birch Rine and for encouragement. the Indians that has gone down, their trade is not half what it was last year. the men cutting firewood. Clear weather Wind in the SE quarter."

Apr. 13
" Friday the men employed clearing the Plantation. fine Clear weather. Wind in the SE quarter."

Apr. 14
" Saturday AM Robert Longmoor and two men splitting of wooden work for Canoes, and three Indians seeking of wood fit for the same Purpose; As soon as found men is to go to afsist them in falling and to get firewood for them. flying Clouds with Wind at ESE the rest of the men falling wood for next year."

Apr. 15
" Sunday Wind in the SE quarter. Cloudy weather and blowing hard. five Tents of Indians came in well gooded, but as we have nothing to trade, they are all going to the Canadian Traders, and will not build Canoes. In this Gang I suppose their may be about 1000 Beaver."

Apr. 16
" Monday Some of the Indians that went down before, part gone back and part not returned as yet. AM Robert Longmoor in mending of an Indians Gun, that is staying to build Canoes, cut his hand with a small Firmer, that he will not be able to build Canoes by all appearance. four men along with three Indians getting Canoe Wooden work, the rest falling firewood. Wind ESE."

Apr. 17
" Tuesday Do. 4 men employed as yesterday, three men gone to bring home meat from a Stone Indian but will not return till to morrow, they have four Horses with them, the rest of the men falling wood. Clear weather wind ESE."

Apr. 18
" Wednesday this day three Indian men and three English men at Canoe work. the men that was for meat arrived, and all they brought only was a day and a half's allowance for all hands. I am thinking very long for the three men that has been gone this 18 Days for Birch Rine, as the River is dangerous to crofs on the Ice. the men at home falling wood, Cloudy weather Wind variable from SE to SW."

Apr. 19
" Thursday the Indians and Englishmen employed as yesterday. One Englishman and an Indian went off a hunting at night returned with part of one buffalloe, but as there is daily Indians pafsing and repafsing from the French House, Starving, the Indians has keep'd the best part for themselves. flying Clouds with Wind at SW the Ice on the River took way and stopped a little below. So that I expect the River will soon be clear."

Apr. 20
" Friday the Indians employed about getting Wooden Work and Six English men with them, this day hard Gales at SW. the River standing fast as yet, the rest of the men falling wood."

Apr. 21
" Saturday the men and Indians employed as yesterday the three men that went off the first of April arrived on the other side of the River at 3 PM but cannot crofs as the River is broke and no Canoe can go for Ice. Wind SW with hard Gales."

Apr. 22
" Sunday the fore part Clear weather. mending of a Canoe to crofs the men and Indians with Birch Rine. At 4 PM the River a little Clear got them acrofs. At 6 very hard Rain all the night with Wind at ESE."

Apr. 23
" Monday Hard Rain and Sleet all these 24 Hours. Wind at N and NNE a great many Indians on the Plantation part going to the french House and part coming from it."

Apr. 24
" Tuesday fine Clear weather. Robert Longmoor and the Indians making Canoe Work the men falling firewood. I am under so much Obligation for the Indians to build Canoes and they know it as well. If Your Honours had a Boat Builder that could build flat bottom'd Boats, he could serve for both Branches, and the Natives would see we could do without there afsistance, and they would do more without being asked, and lefs expence. Wind variable in the SE quarter."

Apr. 25
" Wednesday AM nine Englishmen and five Indian men went for Birch Rine. the men at home falling wood. Some of the Indians went away this day acrofs the River. fine clear weather. Wind at WNW."

Apr. 26
" Thursday Robert Longmoor at work on Canoe Gunnels and Shafts. the men falling of wood. One Indians Splitting of wood for Canoes two men with him. PM Rain with wind at ESE."

Apr. 27
" Friday 17 Tents of Indians upon the Plantation, part from the French House and part going to it and all starving for want of provisions fine Clear weather Wind at SE the men employed falling of wood."

Apr. 28
" Saturday Robert Longmoor employed about Canoe Work. the men falling Wood. Wind variable from North to ESE."

Apr. 29
" Sunday Robert Longmoor making all ready for Sewing Canoes. fine Clear weather Wind variable Southerly."

Apr. 30
" Monday Robert Longmoor is all ready for building Canoes to morrow if it should be a good day. At 3 PM arrived the Englishmen and Indians with Birch Rine, and a good many Indians from the french House. I hear the Frenchmen is coming up the River in a few Days to build a House, but where the Indians cannot tell So that I am very much afraid Hudsons House will be destroy'd as we have no Goods nor men to spare to take care of it. this day a Canoe repaired to sett off to morrow morning and two Englishmen to acquaint Mr Tomison as nigh as pofsible what time I think I can be ready to go down. wind in the SE quarter."

May 1 1781
" Tuesday At 8 AM Charles Isham and Will Coupland with one Canoe went away to Cumberland House to acquaint Mr Tomison as nigh as we could when we would be ready to go down. The Big Canoe put upon the Stocks. The men some falling Wood, and some keeping House. Wind E erly blowing hard Clear weather."

" The Copy of the General Letter
Hudsons House May 1st 1781
Sir
This comes with my Compliments to you hoping this will find you and all under your direction in good Health as thank God we are all in at present.
Sir
I have sent down one Canoe as it was your desire and necefsary for you to know as nigh as pofsible I can give you information when I can be ready to leave Hudsons House. I think that in about 12 or 14 days if good weather permit I will be ready and as much sooner as Pofsible. this day I am to put on a Big Canoe upon the Stocks 26 foot by 5. and two middle Sized as fast as pofsible. there is four Indians that built last year and one Stranger this year So I hope to have Seven middle Sized Canoes and one new Big one. I am but very short of provisions, only about two days dry meat in the House, Beat meat we have sufficient to keep us from any more short allowance I hope, But scarce any fat. Our trade what is ready packed is 6669 and there may be about two Bundles to pack, So I cannot give you the Account any higher at present, you will excuse haste as I could not write last night for Indians and this morning I am busy So no more at present, I wish you Health and Happinefs and great Succefs to the Companys affairs.
Robert Longmoor.
NB. the French is coming up to Build a House above us So I am very much afraid of Hudsons House being destroyed, the Bloody Walker has stayed at the French House to bring them up with him and the rest of his Brothers arrived late last night."

May 2
" Wednesday Wind in the SW quarter Clear weather. Robert Longmoor working at Canoes. Some of the men attending him. James Elphingston writing, the rest of the men falling firewood. the Big Canoe taken of the Stocks this day. some of the Indians gone away Twelve Tents of Indians upon the Plantation."

May 3
" Thursday Wind variable all round the Compafs Clear weather at intervals Cloudy. Robert Longmoor working at Canoes some of the men attending him. One Writing, the rest falling firewood. One middling Sized Canoe taken of the Stocks, an Indian Canoe set up all the Indians went away this day except those staying to build Canoes."

May 4
" Friday Hard frost with Wind at NE So that there is no working at Canoes for breaking of the Bark, the men employed as yesterday. All the Indians went away only what is staying to Build Canoes, and one of them that was staying to Build Canoes is gone off."

May 5
" Saturday fine clear weather but Cold white frost in the morning. At 8 PM Robert Longmoor put a Canoe on the Stocks, the men falling wood. James Elphingston writing. The Indians building Canoes likewise. Warm day with Wind at SW."

May 6
" Sunday fine Clear weather Wind variable all round the Compafs. Robt Longmoor at work on the Canoes, some of the People with him. the rest attending the Indians building Canoes."

May 7
" Monday Weather as before Wind SW. Robt. Longmoor timbering Canoes. some of the people with him. Ja. Elphingston writing the rest falling firewood."

May 8
" Tuesday Robt. Longmoor, four Indians and five Englishmen Splitting Wooden work for Canoes, James Elphingston writing the rest falling wood. Hard Gales of wind at South."

May 9
" Wednesday Robt. Longmoor timbering Canoes two new Canoes ready for Pitching and three Old Ones ready pitched, and three more overhaul'd ready for the same. James Elpingston writing, fine Clear weather the fore part, the latter part Small Rain, Wind, variable from WNW to East."

May 10
" Thursday Wind Southerly Clear weather. Robert Longmoor timbering and working at the Big Canoe, some of the People with him. James Elphingston writing, the rest clearing the plantation."

May 11
" Friday Wind SW variable fore part heavy Rains, not able to work at Canoes. PM clear weather. James Elphingston writing, the rest repairing and pitching the Old Canoes and Indians at new ones."

May 12
" Saturday Wind variable Robert Longmoor finish'd the Big Canoe ready for Pitching which is 26 foot and 8 Inches by 5 foot 1 in the Clear, and two ready finish'd 22 foot by 2 foot 11 Inches in the Clear, to go to the factorry. PM At One very hard Rain Wind at NE James Elphingston writing. the men falling wood."

May 13
" Sunday Very hard Rain all the fore part. PM Snow and Sleet. Wind at NE."

May 14
" Monday Cloudy weather with Showers of Rain. Wind variable all round the Compafs. All hands pitching and working to get all ready for going in Canoes tomorrow if Wind and weather and permit. All the Provisions that was in the House is this day served out, viz. nine days to the men and 60 lb Beat meat and 16 lb fat to the Indians that is going down, upon account of their having no provisions, and that we cant lay by for them to hunt as it is so late in the season. One Indian Canoe gone before to hunt and to lay by till we come up to them to morrow he has four Bundles of furrs with him."

May 15
" Tuesday fore part Clear latter part Cloudy Wind variable from SW to NW. At 7 AM embark'd at Hudsons House with fourteen Canoes of English and Eight Canoes of Indians for Cumberland House, fore part laying by for the Indians not coming up. At 7 PM put up about 3 miles below the French House, Distance about 45 miles."

May 16
" Wednesday Cloudy weather Wind in the SE quarter, fore part laying by on account of the Indians drinking. About 3 PM Embark'd and paddled about an hour, and was oblidged to put up on account of Heavy Rains which has damag'd our Furrs very much, not having any Covering but old Tentleather, had we Oilskin Covering we cou'd keep every furr dry."

May 17
" Thursday Heavy thunder and Rain all last night and all the fore part of the day. At noon a little Clearer. Embark'd and paddled in strong rappid Currents and at 4 PM put up with heavy Rain. Distance made about 25 miles."

May 18
" Friday fore part heavy Rain. At 10 a little Clearer. At 1/2 past 10 embark'd, paddling in strong Rappid Currents. At noon went past the Branch. At 4 PM put up, Canoes being Leaky and rain coming out. At night Heavy Rain. Distance made about 40 miles."

May 19
" Saturday morning part Cloudy with small rain afterwards Cloudy with hard Gales of Wind at ESE. At 3 AM embark'd and at 4 PM up, Canoes being Leaky. Evening small mizzling Rain. All our Indians in Company. Distance made about 60 miles."

May 20
" Sunday At 4 AM embark'd. Cloudy weather with hard Gales of Wind at ESE. At 1 PM was forced to lay by for Wind. At 4 PM Embark'd and at 6 PM put up below the Rappids two Indian Canoes behind.Distance made about 40 miles."

May 21
" Monday hard Gales of Wind at E and EBS At 3 1/2 AM embark'd and at 4 PM put up. One of the Big Canoes Leaky Distance made about 45 miles. two Indian Canoes behind the same as yesterday."

May 22
" Tuesday At 3 1/2 AM embarked and at 9 1/2 AM arrived at Cumberland House. Wind variable in the SE quarter. Distance made about 20 miles. At noon the two Canoes that was behind arrived all safe. I CONCLUDE HONble
SIRS
Your most Obedient
and Humble Servant
Robert Longmoor"



B.87/a/3

Home