" A Journal of the most remarkable Transactions and Occurrences at Hudsons House from 22d September 1781 to 12th March 1782
by Will. Walker Master."
[cover]

" Hudsons House
in
North America
AD. 1781 a 2.
A Journal of William Walkers, transactions
Occurrences &c from Sept. the 22d and ending
May the 14th 1782
for the Honourable
Hudsons Bay Company"
[title page]

Sept. 22 1781
" Saturday Wind WBN clear moderate weather. We embarked from Cumberland House on our Journey for Hudson House, went about 20 miles and then put up."

Sept. 23
" Sunday Wind NW a moderate breeze clear weather. We paddled about 24 miles and then put up."

Sept. 24
" Monday Wind NE a middling stiff breeze sometimes clear other times Cloudy. In the evening put up paddled and sailed about 26 miles. Traded some green moose flesh from Indians we overtook on the Road."

Sept. 25
" Tuesday Wind variable clear weather; proceeded on our Journey sometimes paddled othertimes tracking. met with Six Canoes, traded about 3 days moose flesh, 27 miles to day."

Sept. 26
" Wednesday Wind NE a middling stiff breeze with thunder Lightning and Rain the whole day."

Sept. 27
" Thursday Wind much the same but weather clearer, proceeded on our Journey paddling and sailing. In the morning met with one Canoe. In the Evening put up. about 35 miles to day. received the most part of two moose from Indians to day these Indians was afore hunting for us and is to accompany us to our House. Paid them for their flesh in Liquor and they got drunk."

Sept. 28
" Friday Wind NE a middling stiff breeze cloudy weather Proceeded on our Journey, track'd about 25 miles and then put up."

Sept. 29
" Saturday Wind and weather much the same proceeded as before. In the Evening put up, about 25 miles to day received 5 Beaver from Indians."

Sept. 30
" Sunday Wind and weather much the same, proceeded as before, about 25 miles to day and then put up."

Oct. 1 1781
" Monday Wind variable sometimes cloudy othertimes clear, proceeded on our Journey about 24 miles and then put up. received 2 Beaver amd one Moose from Indians. Gave them some Liquor and they got drunk."

Oct. 2
" Tuesday Wind variable part clear and part Cloudy proceeded on our Journey, tracking about 24 miles and then put up."

Oct. 3
" Wednesday Wind variable clear Windy weather. Proceeded on our Journey tracking about 16 miles and then put up. a little way in the Westernmost Branch. Received One Old and two young Beaver from Indians."

Oct. 4
" Thursday Wind and weather much the same as before but more boisterous. Proceeded on our Journey, tracking about 6 miles and then put up, the falls being very bad. Received one moose from Indians."

Oct. 5
" Friday Wind SW a moderate fine day Proceeded on our Journey to the end of the tracking ground about 25 miles to day and then put up."

Oct. 6
" Saturday Wind variable a middling stiff Breeze proceeded on our Journey paddling, pafsed by the french House from which we got the Information that our House was standing safe. Traded a few Skins of the Indians that was laying about their House and then set off again about 20 miles to day and then put up."

Oct. 7
" Sunday Wind SW a middling stiff Breeze clear weather. Proceeded on our Journey paddling about 15 miles and then put up the Wind being very bad and right a head."

Oct. 8
" Monday Wind variable stiff Breeze clear weather. Proceeded on our Journey about 12 miles and then put up, the Wind being so Boisterous we could not paddle."

Oct. 9
" Tuesday Wind SW a moderate fine Breeze clear weather Proceeded on our Journey paddling about Six miles Where we all arrived safe at Hudsons House, found it in as good Repair as we could have expected. 12 Tents waiting our arrival, traded some Skins and Provisions and they got all drunk."

Oct. 10
" Wednesday Wind variable clear hot sultry weather. traded with the Indians the whole night and all day and they all drunk as before."

Oct. 11
" Thursday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze the fore part of the day cloudy, the latter clear, traded some furrs and Provisions from Indians and part of them pitched away."

Oct. 12
" Friday Wind Northerly a middling stiff Breeze Clear weather. Myself and one man trading with the Indians the men employed repairing the House. In the Evenng 12 Tents of Pegogemy Indians arrived with Provision and a few Skins. trading Liquor with them the whole night."

Oct. 13
" Saturday Wind variable clear modderate weather. Trading with the Indians and a great many of them pitching away, the men employed about Sundry duties."

Oct. 14
" Sunday Wind SW a moderate Breeze clear weather. We heard of the frenchmens arrival, and the Indians they all pitched away some for the french House, others for their Winter's quarters. An Invitation came by a Young fellow to inform the Indians that as many as would come to them, they should get a drink for nothing."

Oct. 15
" Monday Wind variable clear weather. the men employ'd repairing the mens Chimney, the rest felling Timber for a few Boards and building a little Outside House; Also fitted out five men for the Winter to supply themselves in the Barren Ground. Viz. Isaac Batt, James Spence, William Omen, James Batt and Mitchell Omen. two Tents of Indians upon our Plantation."

Oct. 16
" Tuesday Wind SW a moderate fine Breeze Clear hot sultry weather. the men employed as yesterday. In the Evening arrived two Indians with a few Skins, traded ready for going away the next morning also our men went away for the Barren Ground."

Oct. 17
" Wednesday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. the men employed as yesterday. The Indians all pitched away. The Barren Ground is all burnt nigh hand so that their is no Beasts resting nigh hand, which I believe we shall be very hard put to it for Provisions."

Oct. 18
" Thursday Wind variable clear weather. The men employed building a little Outside House and sprigging of firewood. In the Evenng two Indian men and their women arrived, brought a little Red Deers flesh and a few Skins."

Oct. 19
" Friday Wind and weather much the same as before. The men employed as yesterday."

Oct. 20
" Saturday Wind Westerly a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather; the men employed building a little temporary House and mudding the Old One. In the Evening arrived Seven Tents of Swampy Ground Stone Indians, part they traded here and got drunk and part of them went to the french House."

Oct. 21
" Sunday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday but more moderate. trading with the Indians that would trade here and part of them went to the french House."

Oct. 22
" Monday Wind SW a middling stiff Breeze clear weather. the men employed carrying firewood and sawing a few Boards. In the Evening one Indian man arrived for Tobacco from Seven Tents of Indians which used to trade here also informs me that one of their Tents they was oblidged to leave standing in the Barren Ground with Seven Indians laying dead in the Inside that died of the Small pax, and he himself is taken so bad that I believe he never will recover. This Disorder flying through the Country will be very detrimental to your Honor's Affairs. This plaguey disorder by what I can hear was brought from the Snake Indians last Summer, by the Different Tribes that traded about this River. I can remember the time altho' it is but a few years that they did not go to War above Once in three, but now thay have got such supplies of Ammunition &c that they dont know what to do with it, they go every year. If their had been none but YOUR HONORS Settlements, as usual, I don't think anything of this kind would have fell amongst them yet."

Oct. 23
" Tuesday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. The men employed mudding part of the House and cleaning the yard, At noon arrived two Tents of those mention'd yesterday with two or three Skins, and three of themselves very bad with the Small Pox and two they buried the night before they came here. The natives they are of such a kind of people that if they should have the misfortune to lose one of their family that they have not courage to hunt Provisions for themselves, let alone killing of furrs for that Season."

Oct. 24
" Wednesday Wind variable cloudy weather. the men employed Sawing and sprigging of firewood. Those mention'd yesterday went away."

Oct. 25
" Thursday Wind Northerly Cloudy weather with a little Snow. the men employed as yesterday. In the Evening two Indians arrived with a little provisions which I traded."

Oct. 26
" Friday Wind EBS a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather with Snow. the men employed cutting a little firewood. At night arrived two Indians with a little dried flesh which I traded for Tobacco and about 12 oClock at night they went away. the Ice drving very much in the River to day."

Oct. 27
" Saturday Wind NE a moderate Breeze Cloudy weather. the men employed cleaning the yard and their Cabbins. In the Evening arrived some Indians from the french House. they informed me that it was three nights ago since the French Canoes arrived."

Oct. 28
" Sunday Wind variable Cloudy weather. those that arrived yesterday went away. Read Divine Service for the Day."

Oct. 29
" Monday Wind Northerly clear fine weather. In the morning arrived an Indian man, just could reach the House alive, and in the Afternoon he died of the Small Pox, all his friends and Relations was left him when they was pitching away, and at this present time four more are laying here with the same disorder, and for the number of Tents, that this plaguey disorder has already destroyed. I cannot give any Account. These Natives are such a Dastardly kind of people, that if any of their Relations should be bad with this disorder, they think they need not look for any Recovery, they just throw them away, and so the poor Soul perishes, they never seeing any thing of this kind before.The men employed Sprigging firewood and digging a Grave for the Indian man."

Oct. 30
" Tuesday Wind SE Cloudy weather The men employed as yesterday. One female Indian died of the Small Pox. At noon arrived One Tent of Indians with a few furrs and a little Victuals part of which they traded and got drunk."

Oct. 31
" Wednesday Wind Northerly a moderate Breeze clear weather. they that arrived yesterday, traded and went away. the men employed Sprigging firewood and carrying it together."

Nov. 1 1781
" Thursday Wind Southerly a mild Calm Day. the men employed about Sundry Duties. Buried one Young Child in the forenoon, and afterwards one of the men looking for his Horse, found an Indian man a little distance from the House who died with the aforesaid Distemper. In the afternoon I sent the men in search of another that went from here some time ago, thinking that he had shared the same fate, but they found him still living and likely to get the better of it."

Nov. 2
" Friday Wind SE a middling stiff Breeze clear weather. the men employed carrying a little firewood together."

Nov. 3
" Saturday Wind Easterly a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather. the men employed burying a female Indian that died of the Small Pox."

Nov. 4
" Sunday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze cloudy warm weather. At noon arrived three Indian men and Women from the Beaver River brought a few Skins, traded and got Drunk. Charles Isham taken very bad with the Small Pox."

Nov. 5
" Monday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday but towards noon it fell a little Snow. The men employed doing necefsary Jobs about the House. Charles Isham and One female Indian very bad with the Small Pox."

Nov. 6
" Tuesday Wind SE a middling Stiff Breeze Cloudy weather with Snow. At noon arrived four Beaver River Indians with a few Skins, those mention'd on Sunday went away. the men employ'd as before."

Nov. 7
" Wednesday Wind and weather the same as yesterday. the men employed cutting a little firewood. those mention'd yesterday traded and went away. Charles Isham laying very ill with the Small Pox."

Nov. 8
" Thursday Wind Easterly a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather with a little Snow. the men employed cutting a little firewood."

Nov. 9
" Friday Wind Southerly a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy weather. The men employed covering the Canoes from the Weather and cutting a little firewood. Sent two men away to see if they can see any Buffallo nigh hand, and to try if they can kill or any other Cattle which may happen in their way. Tomorrow I must put my people to short Allowance, which the Allowance Book will Specify, for I am not likely to get any provisions from Indians, or indeed very little of any thing else, the Small Pox is raging with such great Violence over this Country, not hardly sparing any that takes it, that in a short time I do not suppose they will hardly be a staid Indian Living, for where they die there they lay and the Wild beasts eats them up, for they are frightened of going nigh one to another as soon as they take bad, So the one half for want of indulgencies is starved before they can gather strength to help themselves. They think when they are once taken bad they need not look for any recovery. So the person that's bad, turns feeble that he cannot walk, they leave them behind when they're pitching away, and so the poor Soul perishes."

Nov. 10
" Saturday Wind Southerly a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather. the men employed doing Odd Jobs about the House."

Nov. 11
" Sunday Wind variable Cloudy weather with a little Snow. this morning the men employed burying a female Indian that died of the Small Pox. Charles Isham seems to be upon Recovery."

Nov. 12
" Monday Wind variable Westerly cloudy weather. the two men that went away on friday last return'd, but not any succefs having seen no Buffallo nor any thing else. the men employed cutting a little firewood. In the morning One Indian man and his family arrived with a little Green flesh and a little dried and Beat meat. He informs me the Indians he went in Company with are all bad and a great many dead. Charles Isham still bad with the Small Pox but likely to recover, also five female Indians bad with the same Distemper."

Nov. 13
" Tuesday Wind and weather as yesterday. the men employ'd as yesterday. the Indians mention'd yesterday traded and went away. One male Indian Child died."

Nov. 14
" Wednesday Wind NW clear weather. the men employed cutting a little firewood and burying a female Indian that died this morning. Charles Isham still ailing as likewise four female Indians and one male Indian Boy."

Nov. 15
" Thursday Wind variable cloudy weather. the men employed as yesterday and burying one female Indian. At noon arrived one Indian with some Red Deers flesh, traded and went away. Charles Isham still bad. In the Evening arrived One of the master Traders and three men going in search of Buffallo and to see if they are any nigh Hand."

Nov. 16
" Friday Wind variable clear fine weather. the men employed cutting a little firewood. the Frenchmen that arrived last night proceeded on their Journey to the Barren Ground."

Nov. 17
" Saturday Wind NW a middling stiff Breeze Clear sharp weather. the men employed as yesterday. Charles Isham and the rest still ailing. At noon arrived One Indian man with some Green Red Deers flesh. Traded and went away."

Nov. 18
" Sunday Wind Westerly Cloudy weather."

Nov. 19
" Monday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze cloudy weather. the men employed cutting a little firewood and doing other neccefsaries in doors. Charles Isham Better. this day the River froze over."

Nov. 20
" Tuesday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze cloudy weather but very sharp. the men employed as yesterday."

Nov. 21
" Wednesday Wind northerly a middling Stiff Breeze clear sharp weather. the men employed as before."

Nov. 22
" Thursday Wind much the same Cloudy weather. the men employed cutting firewood. Buried One young male Indian who died of the Small Pox. Charles Isham upon the mending order."

Nov. 23
" Friday Wind variable cloudy weather the men employed cutting a little firewood."

Nov. 24
" Saturday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze clear sharp weather. the men employed cutting a little firewood. At noon arrived a few Stone Indians with about a Weeks provisions, for which I paid very Dear, being greatly in want for to give them encouragement that they might quickly come again, they inform mr that the Small Pox had carried off two of our Leaders that always used to trade here. They traded what they had and went away seemingly satisfied."

Nov. 25
" Sunday Wind Easterly a middling stiff Breeze clear sharp weather. In the morning buried one young female Child. Read Divine Service for the day. In the Afternoon arrived a few Indians with a little meat and a few Skins. Charles Isham upon Recovery of the Small Pox."

Nov. 26
" Monday Wind SE a moderate breeze clear weather. the men employed cutting a little firewood. Those Indians arrived yesterday went away."

Nov. 27
" Tuesday Wind variable clear sharp weather. the men employed as yesterday. At noon arrived one man and two women, they informed me that they had left two Tents about 5 days Journey from here, The People belonging to them laying dead in the Inside, which died of the Small Pox, and now two of themselves are taken bad with the same disorder. It is very shocking to see the poor creatures in such a deplorable condition, it does not lay in our power to help them, and so We shall find to your Honors great disadvantage."

Nov. 28
" Wednesday Wind Southerly a middling Stiff Breeze cloudy weather. the men employed cutting a little firewood."

Nov. 29
" Thursday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. the men employed about sundry duties. At noon arrived one Old Man, two young Boys, and one young Girl which informed me that they was all that was left alive out of 5 Tents. These was all left standing with the Deceased Bodies in the Inside. all of them dying of the Small Pox. Except four, those aforementin'd. Some of these Indians I had trusted a little Debt, being that they was those who never failed coming to Us for their Supplies, besides helping Us up with Goods from York fort &c. and now I am very sure there will be neither Indians nor Canoes to go down with Us next Spring from this place. It will be very detrimental to Our Affairs But we are not One alone that will find the Smart, for I think this will give the Canadian Traders a trial and let us know whether they be Substantial or no. To be sure they are not beholden to Indians in bringing Goods backwards and forwards and that we are, But this year I am sure that their Goods will not be half expended which will lay dead upon their Hands."

Nov. 30
" Friday Wind Northerly cloudy weather snowing most part of the day. The men employed in doors. In the Afternoon Seven Frenchmen pafsed by on their Journey to their Old House above us."

Dec. 1 1781
" Saturday Wind northerly clear weather the men employed cutting firewood."

Dec. 2
" Sunday Wind and weather as yesterday. Read Divine Service for the Day. Buried one female Indian that died of the Small Pox. The men that went out to the Barren Ground October the 15th came home this day starving no Buffallo to be found. They inform me of the Indians all dying in the Barren Ground, and the Tents all standing. the Bodies inside unburied, and hardly a live Indian to be seen."

Dec. 3
" Monday Wind variable cloudy weather fitted out Eight men to go to Cumberland House as there is very little provisions in the House and no likelihood of getting any more. the rest of the men burying one female Indian that came here on tuesday last. In the Evening One Indian man and two Children arrived recover'd of the Small Pox, but almost starved to Death. These People are the Remains of the five Tents mentioned the 23d of October last, which did not come in. They inform me that they was all taken bad the same day the young fellow came to the House for Tobacco. that they had a great number of Skins and plenty of provisions, But that the Wolves had destroyed it all, also pulled down the Tents and devoured the Bodies. Shocking news indeed and so well we shall know it this Winter."

Dec. 4
" Tuesday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. Eight men getting ready to go to Cumberland House, the rest cutting a little firewood. Early in the morning before day, a great many Frenchmen went up the River with Goods, and in the Evening twelve of them pafsed by on their back for the Lower House."

Dec. 5
" Wednesday Wind NE Cloudy weather with Snow. Eight men sett off for Cumberland House, the rest cutting a little firewood."

" Copy of the General Letter
Hudsons House Dec. 4th 1781
Sir,
After a fine pafsage of 18 Days We arrived here, where we found the House &c all standing safe as when We left it, and wanting very little repair; Twelve Tents of Indians upon the Plantation.

I am very Sorry that I should have such disagreeable news to send you, But the Small Pox is raging all round Us with great Violence; sparing very few that takes it. We have received the news of above nine Tents of Indians Within here all dead, the Tents left standing and the Bodies lying inside unburied. As for the Stone Indians they are very few, if any left alive, Which will make this One of the Worst years that ever the Honble Hudsons Bay Company's Servants has seen both for furrs and Provisions. My Trade at this time is not above 1200 made Beaver.

Provisions we have not at this time above 35 days for 15 men in the House at Half Allowance, which makes me to send away the men with the Pacquet to viz. Magnus Twatt, Robert Davey, Edward Wishart, William Grey, Magnus Annell, Thomas Tate, William Folster and George Rofs, sooner than I would otherwise done, and there is not the least likelihood of any more Provisions coming in this year, for indeed where is it to come from when the Indians is dying daily, and them that has not yet taken the Small Pox, is frighten'd to look after any thing for fear of falling in with Others that is Bad.

I had sent out five men to the Barren Ground to maintain themselves, but on Sunday Dec. 2d they returned all starving, no Buffallo being to be found and the Indians all dying by this Distemper that there is no getting a Livelihood, the Indians lying dead about the Barren Ground like Rotten Sheep their Tents left standing and the wild Beasts devouring them.

Friday November the 30th, Seven frenchmen pafsed by this House on their Journey up the River, somewheres to build a House, but where We cannot tell. All the men under my Command has behaved themselves very well, and been very brisk in coming up the River this fall, for had the frenchmen been up the River with Liquor before us. No Victuals had come to our Share. I Conclude Wishing Better Succefs to the Companys Affairs.
Health and Happinefs to you and all under your Command.
I am Sir,
your most Obedient
and Humble Servant
William Walker"

Dec. 6
" Thursday Wind variable Cloudy weather with Snow. the men employed cutting a little firewood and Hunting. In the Evening returned without any succefs."

Dec. 7
" Friday Wind Northerly cloudy weather with a little Snow. the men employed as yesterday. Charles Isham walking about, almost recover'd to his former strength. And buried one female Indian."

Dec. 8
" Saturday Wind SW a fine clear sharp day. The men employed cutting a little firewood. Charles Isham a hunting, in the Evening returned without any succefs."

Dec. 9
" Sunday Wind SW a middling stiff Breeze Clear sharp weather. Read Divine Service for the Day."

Dec. 10
" Monday Wind Westerly a middling stiff Breeze Clear weather. The men employed cutting firewood and snaring of Rabbets brought a few Home. At noon arrived a Woman which informed me that she had left 20 Tents a little a this side of the Touchwood Hill, the most of them dead with the Small Pox, only 5 men and a few Women and Children who had got over them."

Dec. 11
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a moderate fine dry Clear weather. the men employed as yesterday, kill'd a few Rabbets."

Dec. 12
" Wednesday Wind and weather the same as yesterday. the men employed cutting firewood and snareing Rabbets. In the Evening a few Indians arrived, brought a little dried meat."

Dec. 13
" Thursday Wind Northerly Cloudy Weather with a thick Rime. The men employed as before. Those Indians mention'd Yesterday traded and went away. fitted out five Englishmen to go and see if they can find any Buffallo."

Dec. 14
" Friday Wind variable clear weather the five Englishmen fitted out yesterday went away. the rest of the men employed as before."

Dec. 15
" Saturday Wind NE Cloudy weather. the men employ'd cutting a little firewood."

Dec. 16
" Sunday Wind variable in the Evening thick Snow Read Divine Service for the day."

Dec. 17
" Monday Wind in the NW quarter blowing hard Cloudy weather. The men employed cutting a little firewood and looking after their Rabbet Snares, brought a few home."

Dec. 18
" Tuesday Wind variable in the morning clear weather and very Cold, afternoon more moderate with some Snow. Charles Isham a hunting kill'd a Red Deer. the rest of the men employed as yesterday."

Dec. 19
" Wednesday Wind NE Cloudy weather two men away fetching home flesh the rest cutting a little firewood and looking after their Rabbet Snares."

Dec. 20
" Thursday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. the people cutting a little firewood."

Dec. 21
" Friday Wind about ENE blowing fresh and Cloudy. the men employed as yesterday. In the Evening arrived Mr Robt Longmoor and Magnus Sclater, they inform me that on Thursday the 13th instant having met the Pacquet men and being informed by them of the Death of the? Indians and scarcity of provisions had sent back the Homeguard Indian and one Englishman with the Goods that was under their Care, having heard by the men that the Goods that was at the House was not likely to be expended."

" Copy of the General Letter
Cumberland House Dec. 8th 1781
Sir,
By the arrival of Mr Longmoor with four more Englishmen accompanied by three Canoes of Indians on the 22d October, I received the agreeable news of the safe arrival of their Honors Ships, and sailing again for England in due time. Sir you will receive from the Bearers the following Articles of trading Goods, Viz. Cloth blue Corded yd 23 1/4, Red Corded 22 1/4, Hatchets Small No. 23, Knives Jack 24, and small Roach 24 as also Letters for You and the men, whch I hope will come safe to hand. Mr Longmoor has received his Orders from Me how He is to employ himself while with you so that you will have nothing to do with him further than to give him what afsistace he may want in procuring Birch Rhind and Wood Work for Canoes. Should the Buffallo be plenty Mr Longmoor is to go into the Plains where he is to pafs the time untill the warm season returns as also those sent with him as I have given them a supply for that purpose. I conclude wishing Succefs to the Company's Affairs, Health and Happinefs to You and all under your Command, and remain
Sir,
your most Obedient
and Humble Servant
William Tomison."

Dec. 22
" Saturday Wind variable Cloudy weather with a little Snow. The men employed cutting a little firewood. Charles Isham a hunting kill'd One Red Deer."

Dec. 23
" Sunday Wind SW a middling stiff Breeze clear weather. Read Divine Service, and three went for the flesh that was kill'd yesterday."

Dec. 24
" Monday Wind SBW a middling stiff Breeze clear weather. the men employed cutting a little firewood. At noon arrived our men from Buffallo hunting, having had no succefs only killed one Old Bull. Also in the Evening one Indian man and his Wife brought me a few Skins and a little provisions, traded and went away."

Dec. 25
" Tuesday Wind Southerly a middling stiff Breeze Clear weather. Read the Lefsons and Prayers appointed for the day."

Dec. 26
" Wednesday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. the men employed cutting a little firewood."

Dec. 27
" Thursday Wind SW a moderate fine day. the men employed cutting a little firewood and one man a hunting in the Evening returned without any succefs."

Dec. 28
" Friday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather with a little Snow. the men employed as yesterday. Mr Robert Longmoor accompanied with Seven men getting themselves in readinefs for to go off to morrow in search of Buffallo, also to see if they can happen of any Indians on their travels, for to persuade them in if pofsible."

Dec. 29
" Saturday Wind NE a middling Stiff Breeze sometimes Cloudy othertimes clear. Mr Robert Longmoor and Seven men went away. At noon arrived two Indian men with a few Skins. these inform me they were all starving but I judge they have been in at the French House. These have not had the Small Pox yet. the men employed about sundry duties."

Dec. 30
" Sunday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather. the two Indians mention'd yesterday went away. Read Divine Service for the Day."

Dec. 31
" Monday Wind variable Cloudy weather the men employed cutting a little firewood."

Jan. 1 1782
" Tuesday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze Snow most part of the day."

Jan. 2
" Wednesday Wind NE a middling fine day. the men employed cutting a little firewood. Myself and Charles Isham a hunting. kill'd 3 Red Deer."

Jan. 3
" Thursday Wind variable, the forenoon clear, the Afternoon Cloudy weather with some Snow. the men employed fetching home flesh. In the Evening arrived two small Indian Boys. The Whole family being dead, only themselves recover'd but not having neccefsaries to rig themselves, One of them is very much froze."

Jan. 4
" Friday Wind NW a sharp clear day. The men employed cutting a little firewood."

Jan. 5
" Saturday Wind and weather as before. the men employed as yesterday."

Jan. 6
" Sunday Wind variable cloudy with Snow, at noon clear, Read Divine Service."

Jan. 7
" Monday Wind NW a middling stiff Breeze clear weather. the men employed cutting firewood. and two men a hunting returned without any succefs."

Jan. 8
" Tuesday Wind SE a middling stiff Breeze clear sharp weather and Cold. the men employed as before."

Jan. 9
" Wednesday Wind variable clear sharp weather. the men employed cutting a little firewood."

Jan. 10
" Thursday Wind NW a moderate Breeze clear sharp weather. the men employed as before. In the Evening one family of Indians arrived but did not bring any thing with them, all starving. Self nature oblidges me to give them some little supply, hoping that they will be able and willing to help me by and by. They say there is no Beasts about, but that is false, for I know when Us Englishmen can murder a Chance One. If they was to hunt with dexterity, they might keep themselves and Us too, they fancy themselves ailing and so have no Heart to hunt any thing."

Jan. 11
" Friday Wind SE a middling Stiff Breeze cloudy weather. the men employed cutting firewood, and one man a hunting."

Jan. 12
" Saturday Wind the same. Weather Clear. The men employed as yesterday. Those Indians mention'd the 10th Pitched away a hunting, also the Englishmen that went a hunting yesterday returned without any succefs."

Jan. 13
" Sunday Wind NE a middling sharp day clear weather Read Divine Service. At noon arrived three Indian men, but did not bring any thing with them. these are all starving, they have not had the Small Pox yet."

Jan. 14
" Monday Wind variable clear sharp weather. the men employed cutting a little firewood. the three men went back to their Own Tents."

Jan. 15
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a middling Stiff Breeze Sometimes clear othertimes Cloudy. the men employed as yesterday. At noon arrived Malcolm Rofs and two men with him brought a few Skins and 350 lb Provisions. The Weather has been so Sharp that the men was hardly able to keep themselves from freezing, if it had not been for one Indian that was in their Company that supplied them with Victuals they would have been starved, for which I have sent him a little Present in return to give him encouragement to stay by them and to come in with them in the Spring. The Canadian Traders have sent this man many a present to get him from Us because he is a good Hunter, they dont mind sending an Eight Gallon Keg of Rum to two or three, So in a short time they will ruin what is living."

Jan. 16
" Wednesday Wind variable clear fine weather. the men employed cutting a little firewood."

Jan. 17
" Thursday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather with Snow. four men getting themselves in readinefs to accompany Malcolm Rofs and the others that came with him, in all Seven to go away with him tomorrow if Weather permits. I have sent a little trifle of trading Goods in the Care of Malcolm Rofs, in case he may meet with a stragling Indian on their travels."

Jan. 18
" Friday Wind and weather much the same. the men employed cutting a little firewood. those fitted out yesterday, the Weather would not permit them to go away."

Jan. 19
" Saturday Wind Southerly Cloudy weather with Snow. the men that was fitted out on thursday last, went away. the rest cutting firewood."

Jan. 20
" Sunday Wind variable Cloudy weather."

Jan. 21
" Monday Wind variable cloudy snowing weather. the men employed getting Snow Shoe frames."

Jan. 22
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather the men employed felling a little firewood."

Jan. 23
" Wednesday Wind NW a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather. the men employed as yesterday."

Jan. 24
" Thursday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather. the men employed cutting firewood."

Jan. 25
" Friday Wind variable a very sharp day. the men employed shoveling the Snow out of the Yard. In the Evening saw one Buffallo walking on the other side of the River."

Jan. 26
" Saturday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze drifting very hard. the men employed falling a little firewood."

Jan. 27
" Sunday Wind Westerly a middling stiff Breeze Clear weather. Read Divine Service for the day."

Jan. 28
" Monday Wind NW a middling stiff Breeze fine weather not so sharp as before. three men employed getting firewood and one man a hunting, returned in the Evening without any succefs."

Jan. 29
" Tuesday Wind variable fine weather. the Men employed cutting a little firewood."

Jan. 30
" Wednesday Wind and weather the same as yesterday. the men employed repairing their fireplace."

Jan. 31
" Thursday Wind Westerly a sharp clear day. the men employed cutting a little firewood."

Feb. 1 1782
" Friday Wind variable a sharp clear day. the men employed felling a little firewood. At noon arrived One Indian man very bad with the Small Pox. he informs me that he left one man, two Women and four small Children bad with the samr disorder, he says they will reach here to morrow."

Feb. 2
" Saturday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather. the men employed cutting a little firewood."

Feb. 3
" Sunday Wind Northerly a middling Breeze Cloudy with Snow. Those mention'd on friday arrived starving. Some of them in a fair way to recover, only are in want of nourishment for to keep them alive."

Feb. 4
" Monday Wind variable clear mild weather. two men employed cutting a little firewood and myself and one man a hunting. In the Evening returned without any succefs."

Feb. 5
" Tuesday Wind SW a middling Breeze clear mild weather. the men employed as before. Myself a Hunting kill'd one Red Deer.'

Feb. 6
" Wednesday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather with Snow. the men employed fetching flesh."

Feb. 7
" Thursday Wind SW a middling Breeze part Cloudy and part Clear. the men employed carrying a little firewood together."

Feb. 8
" Friday Wind SE moderate weather but Cloudy the men employed cutting firewood. myself a hunting kill'd one Red Deer."

Feb. 9
" Saturday Wind Westerly a very warm day the men employed fetching Red Deers flesh myself a hunting."

Feb. 10
" Sunday Wind and weather as yesterday."

Feb. 11
" Monday Wind SW a middling breeze clear warm thawing weather. the men employed cutting a little firewood."

Feb. 12
" Tuesday Wind variable sometimes Cloudy othertimes Clear. the men employed as before."

Feb. 13
" Wednesday Wind NW a middling stiff Breeze clear warm weather. the men employed falling a little firewood."

Feb. 14
" Thursday Wind NE weather part Cloudy and part Clear. the men employed carrying a little firewood in."

Feb. 15
" Friday Wind Westerly a middling stiff Breeze with a little Snow. the men employed as before."

Feb. 16
" Saturday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze with a little Snow. the men employed as before."

Feb. 17
" Sunday Wind variable Read Divine Service."

Feb. 18
" Monday Wind NW moderate weather Clear. The men employed carrying a little firewood. At noon arrived one Englishman with a little Buffallo flesh, came away from his Tent in the morning, they are pitching to the Westward for about two days Journey and to hunt there which will be nigher hand, than where they was before."

Feb. 19
" Tuesday Wind variable Cloudy weather. the men employed cutting firewood. the man that arrived yesterday went away, with whom I sent another man to be maintain'd."

Feb. 20
" Wednesday Wind NW a moderate fine Breeze clear weather. the men employed as yesterday."

Feb. 21
" Thursday Wind and weather as yesterday. The men employed as before."

Feb. 22
" Friday Wind variable clear sharp weather.the men employed about Sundry duties."

Feb. 23
" Saturday Wind northerly clear day. three of our men arrived from the Barren Ground, no Buffallo being nigh hand them. The Indian man that they have for a Hunter some of his family is taken Bad, so that they cannot Pitch after the Buffallo."

Feb. 24
" Sunday Wind NE a moderate Breeze Cloudy weather. Read Divine Service."

Feb. 25
" Monday Wind variable clear weather. the men employed cutting a little firewood. fitted out Magnus Sclater to sett off for Cumberland House, and the other two that came with him on the 23d to return back to their own Tents."

Feb. 26
" Tuesday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather with Snow. Magnus Sclater sett off for Cumberland House, also the other two men back to their own tents. the men employed falling a little firewood. At noon arrived one young Indian Lad which came for Tobacco and informed me that his Tentmates would be here to morrow. These People has not been Ailing yet."

" Copy of the General Letter
Hudsons House February the 25th 1782
Sir,
By the Bearer Magnus Sclater, affords me a second opportunity of writing to you, hoping these few Lines, will find you and all under your Command well, as we are at present.

My men is all out in the Barren Ground except three besides myself but we that are at home we still keep at half allowance, I am very much afraid we shall be put very hard to our shifts in the Spring. Indians I neither see nor hear of any being alive. The most part of them that has recover'd is Women and Children. I have not traded above 20 made Beaver since my last Packet.

This year has been dreadfull both for Us and will be likewise for our HONOURABLE Masters for it never will be to such a flourishing state again for these many years.
I have nothing more to add but Wish better Succefs to the Company's affairs and so remain
Your most Obedient and
Humble Servant
William Walker."

Feb. 27
" Wednesday Wind variable part cloudy and part Clear. the men employed cutting a little firewood and myself a hunting, killed One Red Deer. Those mention'd yesterday arrived with a little provisions and furrs. gave them some Liquor and they got drunk."

Feb. 28
" Thursday Wind NE a stiff Breeze cloudy snowing weather. the men employed fetching home the flesh killed yesterday and myself trading with the natives."

Mar. 1 1782
" Friday Wind variable clear mild weather. the men employed cutting a little firewood."

Mar. 2
" Saturday Wind Northerly a middling stiff Breeze clear weather. the men employed as yesterday and the Indians pitched away to hunt for us."

Mar. 3
" Sunday Wind Easterly a moderate fine day. In the morning arrived Seven men from Cumberland House all well."

" Copy of the General Letter
Cumberland House Feb. 19th 1782
Sir,
I reeived your disagreeable Letter dated Dec. 4th and came safe to hand on the 17th which gave me great pleasure to hear that you and all under your Command was in good health, which happinefs thank God we all here Enjoy but greatly Distrefsed for want of Provisions, which oblidges me to return the following persons back to you in hopes of their making a better livelihood with you. Viz. Robert Davey, William Folster, Magnus Annell, Thomas Tate, Andrew Corrigal, Edward Wishart, and George Rofs. I have also sent two men away with the Sandfly and Pufsasquet tumen to be supported as their is no likelihood of Provisions coming in and the fish falling off. Sir it gives me great pain to hear from your Quarter of the Death of so many brave Indians, but indeed it is not only with you alone for here we have been buried upwards of Thirty, for which number there is only two recover'd, and they are but Children. The U'Basqui'au Indians is all dead and ten Tents of Pegogemy and Cowinetow Indians that was pitching towards this place all died, as to all those that went up the Sturgeon River, I have neither seen nor heard from them since they had Debt last Autumn. My Trade at present near 4000 made Beaver But I do not know where there is any more to come from, as my Debtors is all dead. I have about 1000 Beaver out in Debts, which I believe will be lost by Death. I am very sorry I should have such a Discount to make to their Honors, but as misfortunes are unforeseen I hope their Honors will not think me Culpable for so doing as in all probabilty had the natives lived, there would have been no such Lofses. You will endeavour to ascertain what number of Indians may be alive in the Barren Ground, also from what tribe this Cruel Disorder first Sprung, as to myself am of the Opinion that it came from the Snake Indians and have been conveyed to them by those that trade in the Mifsisippe. Indeed I always was of Opinion that the free trade from Canada would be the ruin of this Country, by reason of so many people coming into the Interior parts to trade, that was but ill qualified for that purpose. you will get what provisions you pofsibly can. As I shall not have a mouthfull by the time you arrive here, without there comes something more than I expect. You will also get what Canoes you can for I shall not be able to get any here for them that used to Build are all Dead. I Conclude wishing Better Succefs to the Companys Affairs, Health and Happinefs to you and all under your Command
I am Sir
your most Obedient
and Humble Servant
William Tomison
PS.
Sir,
the Goods sent by Mr Longmoor I received all safe"

Mar. 4
" Monday Wind Westerly cloudy in the forenoon afternoon clear. the men employed cutting a little firewood, and myself a hunting but did not light of any thing."

Mar. 5
" Tuesday Wind Westerly with a little Snow. the men employed as yesterday. At noon arrived two Stone Indians for Tobacco, which informed me they was Eight Tents of them, that they had got a great quantity of Provisions and a few Skins, and that they would come here for which reason I sent off Robert Davey and three men with them with Tobacco and to see if they could bring them past the French House. I told the man that if he came here, I would give him a Coat. I had a thought they had been at the French House, before they came here, for that is always their Custom."

Mar. 6
" Wednesday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze blowing drifting weather. The Englishmen and two Indians went away that was mention'd yesterday. The Rest except One and myself gone to fetch moose flesh from them that went away the 2d March."

Mar. 7
" Thursday Wind much the same Weather as yesterday. five men returned with four Sleds loaded with green moose flesh; Also two of the men that went with Robert Davey returned with a few Skins which they had met on the Road going in for the french House, and two frenchmen with them, they traded all they had for a little Tobacco and a Gun; and went back again. These was fourteen Blackfoot Indian men, all recover'd of the Small Pox. Robert Davey and the other man proceeded with the two Indians they went away with."

Mar. 9
" Saturday Wind Easterly a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather. the men employed about Sundry duties."

Mar. 10
" Sunday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. Read Divine Service for the day. Received a Letter this day from Wm Holmes which is sent home for your Honors Perusal."

Mar. 11
" Monday Wind NE a middling Stiff Breeze cloudy weather with Snow. Myself a Hunting but did not kill any thing, the rest cutting firewood."

Mar. 12
" Tuesday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. the men employed as before. Sent an answer to Wm Holmes's Letter which is inserted at the latter End of this Book."

Mar. 13
" Wednesday Wind variable with a little Snow. The men employed falling a little Green firewood. At noon arrived Robert Davey and the other man with him that went away on the 6th having not any succefs. The Indians they went away with had nothing, suppose they pretended they had a great deal. They only came here to see if they could cheat us out of any thing."

Mar. 14
" Thursday Wind Northerly a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather. The men employed cutting a little firewood. In the Evening arrived two young Indian Lads for to tell Us to fetch moose flesh. These has not had the Small Pox till now and within this three days there is two of them dead and some of the rest taken bad. This Tent was my whole stand by for Provisions."

Mar. 15
" Friday Wind much the same weather clear the men gone for moose flesh except two and myself."

Mar. 16
" Saturday Wind variable clear sharp weather. The men returned with Six Sleds of Green moose flesh and Beat meat, and two men cutting a little firewood."

Mar. 17
" Sunday Wind NE a middling Stiff Breeze Cloudy weather read Divine Service."

Mar. 18
" Monday Wind NW a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather. The men employed falling of firewood. At noon arrived one Tent of Indians, from whom I received the moose flesh on the 16th hauling a Woman here to be buried and two more they have left behind. These intend not to pitch away so One of the men I intend to send a hunting to morrow; When these die, I have nobody to kill a Beast for Us, there is two more but one is Lame, and the other too Old."

Mar. 19
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather. the men employed as yesterday."

Mar. 20
" Wednesday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. the men employed about Sundry duties, and one Indian man a hunting but did not kill any thing."

Mar. 21
" Thursday Wind Westerly sometimes Clear othertimes Cloudy. the men employed cutting firewood. One Indian man a hunting but did not kill any thing."

Mar. 22
" Friday Wind Westerly a middling stiff Breeze Clear weather. the men employed about Sundry duties."

Mar. 23
" Saturday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. the men employed cutting a little firewood."

Mar. 24
" Sunday Wind NW a strong Gale Read Divine Service."

Mar. 25
" Monday Wind northerly middling clear weather the men cutting a little firewood."

Mar. 26
" Tuesday Wind NW a middling stiff Breeze. Clear weather and sharp. the men employed as yesterday."

Mar. 27
" Wednesday Wind variable clear sharp weather. The men employed about Sundry duties. In the Evening arrived nine of my men from the Barren Ground, all hearty and well. Mr Longmoor and Malchom Rofs informed me that the Canadians does not think any thing of sending an Eight Gallon Keg of Rum to a Couple of men, only just for to get them to come in, suppose they have got no furrs, I am very sure in a short time they will ruin what natives is living for want of Conduct and a standard for to trade by."

Mar. 28
" Thursday Wind Southerly a middling stiff Breeze Clear weather with a little Thaw. the men employed about sundry duties."

Mar. 29
" Friday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. the men employed as before."

Mar. 30
" Saturday Wind variable Windy weather. The men employed cutting a little firewood. Buried One male Indian."

Mar. 31
" Sunday Wind SW a middling stiff Breeze part Cloudy and part Clear. Read Divine Service."

Apr. 1 1782
" Monday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. The men employed cutting a little firewood. fitted out 16 Englishmen and one Indian for the Barren Ground to be maintain'd or to maintain themselves where Buffallo is."

Apr. 2
" Tuesday Wind Westerly cloudy weather. the men employed doing necefsary Jobs about the House. The men fitted out yesterday went away."

Apr. 3
" Wednesday Wind and weather the same as yesterday. the men employed as yesterday. Buried one female Indian and two Children."

Apr. 4
" Thursday Wind variable Cloudy weather. the men employed digging a Grave for an Indian Woman and cutting a little firewood."

Apr. 5
" Friday Wind NE a very strong Gale weather Cloudy with a little Snow. The men employed burying two young Indian men."

Apr. 6
" Saturday Wind Northerly a middling strong Gale with flying Clouds. the men employed one female Indian."

Apr. 7
" Sunday Wind Westerly clear fine weather."

Apr. 8
" Monday Wind variable Cloudy weather the men employed cutting a little firewood and geting a few Paddles."

Apr. 9
" Tuesday Wind NW a moderate Breeze Cold weather The men employed as yesterday. In the Evening arrived two Beaver River Indians for Tobacco. These have not had the Small Pox yet, they say will be here to morrow morning."

Apr. 10
" Wednesday Wind NE Cloudy weather. The men employed about sundry duties. Those mention'd yesterday arrived soon this morning, traded and went away. the same day, On their Coming here, they was oblidged to stage about 20 Beaver, for which I sent two men away with them to bring the Skins they laid up."

Apr. 11
" Thursday Wind northerly Cloudy weather. One man and myself at home keeping House."

Apr. 12
" Friday Wind much the same Cloudy weather. Myself and one man buried two female Indians."

Apr. 13
" Saturday Wind northerly a middling stiff Breeze part Cloudy and part Clear. the two men return'd that went away for the Skins on the 10th."

Apr. 14
" Sunday Wind variable clear fine weather; In the morning arrived an Indian man and his family, with four Horse, loaded with Beat meat and Green Red Deers flesh. traded and went away well pleased."

Apr. 15
" Monday Wind EBS a moderate Breeze clear weather. the men employed about Sundry duties. Seed two Swans to day and Buried one male Indian."

Apr. 16
" Tuesday Wind Southerly a middling stiff Breeze Clear weather. the men employed getting Paddles &c Saw Swans and Geese today amd buried one Indian man, the last of those mention'd on the 18th March, which they was at first 14 in number, and there has not one of them recover'd, and I am very sure that they did not want for any nourishing things as the House could afford."

Apr. 17
" Wednesday Wind SW a middling stiff Breeze Clear fine weather.the men employed cleaning the Garden."

Apr. 18
" Thursday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. At noon arriv'd Mr Longmoor with a Horse a purpose for a few Goods, seeing the Damn'd frenchmen in a manner forcing the Skins from the Indians, and stopping them to go where they pleased, for that Reason I let him what quantity he could get conveyance for, and sent one man away with him. He informs me there is no Buffallo nigh hand, or else I would have had a Tent of Englishmen above the French House, but for want of provisions, We cannot do as we would wish to do."

Apr. 19
" Friday Wind SW a moderate fine day The men employed about Sundry duties a little Rain in the Evening."

Apr. 20
" Saturday Wind variable Cloudy weather with thunder and Rain. the men employed as before. This Day the River broke up and went past the House."

Apr. 21
" Sunday Wind NW a middling stiff Breeze cloudy weather a great deal of Ice pafsing in the River."

Apr. 22
" Monday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy Cold weather the men employed making Paddles."

Apr. 23
" Tuesday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. the men employed as before. In the Evening arrived two men from two Tents, brought a few Skins."

Apr. 24
" Wednesday Wind variable Cloudy Cold weather. the men employed as before. the Indians of yesterday traded and went away. At noon arrived James Elphingston and Mitchell Omen with a few Skins. also one Indian man and his Wife with a few Skins and a little Provisions."

Apr. 25
" Thursday Wind variable sometimes Cloudy othertimes clear. The men employed about sundry duties. Mitchell Omen and the Indian man and his Wife went away."

Apr. 26
" Friday Wind variable in the morning thick Snow afternoon Clear. the men employed about sundry duties. two Englishmen arrived from the Barren Ground with a little Dried meat."

Apr. 27
" Saturday Wind northerly blowing hard and Clear. the men employed as before. the two men that came yesterday getting ready to go to their Tents to morrow."

Apr. 28
" Sunday Wind W erly fine clear day the two men returned to their Tents."

Apr. 29
" Monday Wind variable Blowing hard Cloudy weather. two Tents of Indians arrived from within, with a few furrs. Traded some Liquor and they got drunk."

Apr. 30
" Tuesday Wind E erly Clear weather. the men employed about Sundry duties. the Indians trading what little they had got."

May 1 1782
" Wednesday Wind variable Cloudy weather with a few Drops of Rain. the men employed as before."

May 2
" Thursday Wind Easterly forenoon Cloudy at night heavy Rain. in the Evening four fall Indians came for Tobacco but did not bring any thing with them. the men employed doing neccefsary duties about the House. the Indians of the 29th Instant, I sent away for Birch Rhind."

May 3
" Friday Wind Easterly clear weather. At noon arrived Malcolm Rofs and five more Englishmen with a few Skins, also four Indian men with a few furrs, gave them some Liquor as encouragement and got drunk. the men employed as before. the fall Indians of yesterday went away this morning."

May 4
" Saturday Wind variable clear weather Six Englishmen arrived this day from the Barren Ground. the men employed packing of furrs. Three Tents of Indians arrived with a few Skins traded some Liquor and got drunk."

May 5
" Sunday Wind W erly the Indians of yesterday two tents went away as likewise those that came on the 3d Instant very well satisfied."

May 6
" Monday Wind variable Cloudy weather with Rain. four men getting their Canoes ready to go off for Cumberland House tomorrow, the rest packing of furrs. five of my men came in this day from the Barren Ground. One Indian man a hunting."

May 7
" Tuesday Wind Southerly Clear weather. two Canoes sett off for Cumberland House. the rest employed repairing Canoes. Robt. Longmoor, William Coupland and an Indian man arrived this morning from the Woody Hill with Birch Rhind. in the Evening a few Indians arrived wirh some Green Red Deers flesh and a little Birch Rhind. the Indian man that was a hunting returned killed One Red Deer. traded some Liquor and got drunk."

" Copy of the General Letter
Hudson House May the 6th 1782
Dear Sir,
I received your disagreeable Letter dated February the 19th and came safe to hand on the 3d March, which gave me great pleasure to hear that you and all under your Command was in good Health, which happinefs thank God we all here enjoy, but greatly distrefsed for want of provisions which oblidged me to send my men far away in the Barren Ground. I was intended to have had a Tent at the Upper french House but for want of Provisions I was oblidged to drop it. I have only been 3 men with myself for the most part of the year. By the Bearers Charles Isham, William Folster, William Lewtit, and Thomas Tate I have sent down 17 Bundles of furrs. Excuse me for I would have sent a Canoe sooner but my men falling in with a few Indians, and they waiting for to get them in, is the Reason I have detain'd them so long the frenchmen there has been about 60 men at the Upper House, ever since the Spring advanced. I am informed that the frenchmen at the Upper House has killed two Indians on the 4th Instant.

I am sorry to hear of the death of so many brave Indians belonging to your part. I cannot say but what there is a few Living here yet, and a great many that has not had the disorder. the Old Sky and his Son, have not had the Disorder. What Indians is Living is very hard to deal with. Mr Tomison, Sir Excuse me if I have done amifs to your disappointment in appointing a few of my Servants to stay up here the whole Summer. Some of the Indians that is recover'd has got a great many Skins laid up but they are far away. To be sure it will be very expensive in staying but it will be a means of drawing a few of the natives thats Living to Us, and if we should not stay up we shall not have a native to look at us. besides preserving a stock of Provisions against our Arrival here again, for undoubtedly some of us will be here, also they will be liable to preserve some Birch Rhind in the Summer. I have nothing more to add till a further Opportunity but Wish a better prospect to the Company's Affairs & so Remain
Sir
Your most Obedient
and Humble Servant
William Walker
PS My Trade at present is only about 2500 made Beaver."

May 8
" Wednesday Wind Westerly clear weather. Robt. Longmoor One Englishman and an Indian man getting wooden work for a Canoe. the rest employed repairing the Old Canoes."

May 9
" Thursday Wind SW clear weather the men employed as before."

May 10
" Friday Wind W erly clear weather the men employed as before."

May 11
" Saturday Wind NE with some Rain Cloudy weather the men employed about Sundry duties."

May 12
" Sunday Wind Westerly a middling stiff Breeze Clear weather."

May 13
" Monday Wind varuiable cloudy weather Eight men embarked for Cumberland House the rest employed about Sundry duties."

May 14
" Tuesday Wind variable Sometimes Clear othetimes Cloudy. Mr Longmoor finish'd his Canoe ready for the next morning. the rest employed as before."

" Copy if the General Letter
Hudsons House May the 14th 1782
Sir
By the Embarking of 13 Englishmen for Cumberland House I take the Opportunity to write hoping these few Lines will find you and all under your Command in pat Health as we are all at present.
Sir I hope you'll not disapprove of my Conduct, in detaining five men with myself up here all Summer. Viz. Isaac Batt, Nicholas Wishart, Andrew Corrigal, Thomas Johnston, and William Coupland as certainly there will be Englishmen up here again, and it will be a means of drawing off part of the Indians that is alive from the frenchmen, as well as securing Provisions for the People against their Arrival, and likewise procuring some Birch Rhind for building Canoes.

Sir I afsure you if people was not to stay up, they would not have an Indian to look at them when they came back for the frenchmen would have them all drawn off before our Arrival. There is a good few Indians alive up here yet. Some not over the Pox and a great many young fellows gone to bring their own and the furrs of their deceased relations who had laid them up when they took the Distemper, a great way off they have most of them promis'd to come here with their furrs. So I thought that it would be of more Benefit to our Honble Masters to stay up here without Orders, than to Carry the Goods down to Cumberland House, where there is hardly an Indian man alive. I hope their Honors will forgive it If I have acted imprudently. What Skins the Frenchmen has got, most part of them has been taken by force out of the Indians Tents and their men carried them into their House, where they just paid them what they pleased.

By the Bearer I have sent down 37 bundles of furrs, which I hope you will receive safe. My Trade is 2598 made Beaver. Having nothing more to add I Conclude Wishing better Succefs to the Company's Affairs. Health and Happinefs to you and all under your Command I Remain
Sir
Your most Obedient
& Humble Servant
William Walker."

" Copy of a Letter sent to William Holmes in answer to a Letter received from him on Sunday March the 10th
Hudsons House March the 12th 1782
Mr Holmes
Sir
By the Bearer Champagne on the 10th Instant I received the disagreeable news of Charles Ishams misconduct and behaviour. Which should have been forwarded by Monsieur St German to you, of his being guilty of employing the Proud Blood to kill some of your men, and again that He Charles Isham dont intend to leave the Country untill such times as he kills Frenchmen. As for taking your mens Women away I think the Women must agree to it before any such thing as that could be done. Mr Holmes if in case I should find any thing to have been said in like manner to what you have reported to me. You may depend I shall do my utmost to put a stop to any such proceedings further, I have sent for him out of the Plains, and another man with him when time permits that it can be conveyed to him. As for punishing him I am not qualified for it, nor e'er a man in this Country no further nor keeping him confined untill such times as he can be conveyed to a proper place where Justice is to be had in a Christian Country. Sir you may say in your Letter to me, should we go to extremities, I do not know what you mean by extremities. The best of my Judgement, I think we are all under one Government and that we ought to agree as such and stand by one another in such Cases and again Jealousy. You never know'd two of one Businefs but what always is so.
I remain dear Sir
Your friend and
Humble Servant
William Walker"


B.87/a/4

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