" A Journal of the most remarkable Transactions and Occurrences at Cumberland House from 18th July 1782 to 5th September 1783 by William Tomison."
[cover]

" Cumberland House America
Anno Domini 1783
Journal containing Transactions Occurrences &c from
York Fort to Cumberland House and from thence
to Hudsons House & to York Fort again by
Mr William Tomison
For the
Honorable Hudson's Bay Company"
[title page]


" From York Fort to Cumberland House"

July 18 1782
" Thursday Wind Westerly a moderate Breeze weather cloudy with Thunder and Rain towards Evening at half past one OClock Embarked for Cumberland House paddled four Miles up haye's River then Obliged to put on shore on a small Island and put up. the Rain being very severe attended with heavy Thunder."

July 19
" Friday Wind variable in the West quarter a Strong Gale with a continual heavy Rain."

July 20
" Saturday Wind NW a strong gale with flying Showers all Day. Indeed I never was worse situated then at present. there being no wood on the Island renders us incapable to make a fire or to keep our tent standing to Shelter us from the Inclemency of the Weather."

July 21
" Sunday Wind Northerly a small Breeze with clear fine weather. At four OClock we Embarked and tracked 'till seven in the Evening then put up six Miles above penny cuttaway, a very great fresh in the River."

July 22
" Monday Wind ENE a smart Breeze weather part clear part Cloudy. at four OClock proceeded and at six in the Evening put up about seven Miles up Steel River. here we found an Indian Girl about seven years of Age almost Starved to Death for want of Food she says that her Father and her was left about a month ago up hayes River where he died of the Small pox but she has got over altho in a poor Condition. this Day as I was looking over the Invoice in which I find I am charged 14 Gallons of Brandy, in the Room of 56 lb? Leaf Tobacco. this I look upon not to be a mistake, but a very great imposition on me, as it was wrote by Mr Cocking's own hand. indeed I am sorry that a Man should be so much at a Lofs as to Charge a person falsly for his own Interest."

July 23
" Tuesday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. at half past four we embarked and tracked till seven in the Evening then put up a little below the Mouth of Chakatanaw or the hill River."

July 24
" Wednesday Little Wind variable with fine clear Weather. at five OClock we proceeded and at Eight came up with our people at the Mouth of the hill River, up which we tracked till six in the Evening then put up a very Strong current which obliged us to Double our tracking lines. indeed they are very Unfit for the Service they are sent for, being too small and no more then 30 fathoms long when in many places 45 fathoms are Required to be out at once."

July 25
" Thursday Wind westerly a small Breeze first part clear latter part cloudy and Inclinable to Rain. At five OClock we proceeded and tracked 'till six in the Evening then put up. several of the Men lame with Cuts and Sprains which has rendered them Unfit for tracking."

July 26
" Friday Wind variable weather Cloudy with heavy Rain at times. we proceeded to the End of the Tracking where we put up. Rained much in the Night."

July 27
" Saturday Wind Northerly fresh Breezes Weather Cloudy with Rain most part of the Day. not weather for paddling."

July 28
" Sunday Wind as yesterday with a Continual Rain all Day. still Weather Bound."

July 29
"Monday Wind Westerly a moderate Breeze with clear Weather 'till the Evening. afterwards Inclinable to Rain. at four OClock we Embarked and at six put up to wait for some of the people that are behind which I suppose have damaged their Canoes as the falls are very bad owing to the great Quantity of Water which makes it very Difficult either to hand or paddle."

July 30
" Tuesday Wind variable between East and North a fresh Gale Weather Cloudy with a heavy Rain till the Evening afterwards abated at six OClock in the Evening Mr Longmoore and the Rest came up. he Informs me they had the Misfortune to Break a Canoe and by the Badnefs of the Weather had some Difficulty in Repairing her."

July 31
" Wednesday Wind NW fresh Breeze weather part cloudy part Clear with a little Rain at times. at four OClock we proceeded and at six in the Evening put up. carryed Over Seven carrying places to Day. gave the Men one quart of Brandy per Mefs."

Aug. 1 1782
" Thursday Wind variable from SW to NE a fresh Gale weather Cloudy with Rain at times. at five OClock we proceeded and at Nine put up for the Rain. four carrying places to Day."

Aug. 2
" Friday Wind Northerly a stiff Breeze weather cloudy with a continual Rain from One OClock yesterday to Eleven this Day. at Noon we Embarked and at seven in the Evening put up at the Swampy Lake."

Aug. 3
" Saturday Wind NW a smart Breeze with clear weather at five OClock we proceeded and at one in the Afternoon put up at the entrance of Maskeechequan? or knee Lake to Repair Canoes. as also to set the Fishing Nets from which we had tolerable good Succefs having caught 40 pike and Tickameg. had four Carrying places to Day."

Aug. 4
" Sunday Wind Southerly first part calm clear Weather but towards Evening blowed a fresh Gale from the SW; at five OClock we proceeded and at six in the Evening put up about two parts through the Lake. Malchom Rofs unfortunately cut his hand Repairing a Canoe last Night which has rendered him uncapable of doing Duty."

Aug. 5
" Monday Wind SE a fresh Breeze Weather cloudy with Rain at Noon. at four OClock we proceeded and at Noon put up at the End of the Lake. set the fishing Net but had very little Succefs."

Aug. 6
" Tuesday Wind between SW and West fresh Gales with clear weather rained very hard in the Night. at half past four OClock we proceeded and at one in the Afternoon put up at the Entrance of Pethepaweenepas? or deep water Lake. set the Nets, had but little Succefs had two carrying places to Day."

Aug. 7
" Wednesday Wind variable light Breezes with very warm Weather. at half past four OClock we Embarked and at Seven in the Evening put up at the small White Lake had two Carrying and two leading places to Day."

Aug. 8
" Thursday Wind Northerly a fresh Gale weather part cloudy part clear. at five we proceeded and at eight in the Evening put up on the White fall had two long carrying places to Day gave the Men a quart of Brandy pr Mefs."

Aug. 9
" Friday Wind NE a small Breeze with Cloudy Weather at five OClock we proceeded and at Eight in the Evening put up a little short of Sea River. Mr Longmoore and George Rofs very lame of Cuts and Bruises in their feet. Malchom Rofs much Better of the Wound in his hand."

Aug. 10
" Saturday Wind variable light Breezes weather part cloudy part clear at four OClock we proceeded and at eight put up at the Head of Sea River."

Aug. 11
" Sunday Wind Southerly with Moderate clear Weather 'till Noon afterwards blowed very hard at four OClock we proceeded and at ten put up at Buskescagan or Rendesvous Lake there being a great Swell prevents us getting acrofs. set the fishing Net caught 12 pike. in the Evening the Indian arrived that I had furs from on our Journey down. he has got a little provisions but has not brought any with him he also Informs me that two families are acrofs the Lake to the Westward and have got plenty of provisions but the Blowing Weather and the Smallnefs of their Canoes prevents them from getting acrofs."

Aug. 12
" Monday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. sent Charles Isham and two Men in search of those acrofs the Lake. in the Evening they returned with near 300 lb of Green and Dried provisions. one Man and two young lads came along with them traded part of the Meat for Liquor and went away again to those that are tenting on an Island a little way from here."

Aug. 13
" Tuesday Wind variable between SW and WSW fresh Gales weather part cloudy part clear rained a little in the Night. in the Evening the Indians came from the Island and put up here. they Traded the remainder of the Meat 200 lb fat and a few Beaver Skins very little Succefs from the Net."

Aug. 14
" Wednesday Wind NW blowing Weather with Rain most part of the Day. still Weather bound. paid the Indian 40 Beaver in Trading Goods for Furs I had from him on our Journey Down. this Indian is an Old Acquaintance of mine since I was Inland from Severn and is now going to accompany us up to Cumberland House with his Son, they being the Only two that has survived out of a great many."

Aug. 15
" Thursday Wind variable first part a thick Fog latter part clear and blowed fresh from the NW in the Evening took up the Nets to Dry. we have caught about 40 pike since we came here."

Aug. 16
" Friday Wind SE a fresh Gale Weather cloudy at times a very Dreadful night of Thunder and Lightning attended with heavy Rain which Continued from nine at Night till two in the Morning which During the whole time was like one Continual Fire."

Aug. 17
" Saturday Wind variable squally Weather with heavy Rain at Times; we proceeded to the Entrance of the great Lake where we were Obliged to put up there being too much wind with a heavy Swell. the Indians also put up here."

Aug. 18
" Sunday Wind WSW a Stiff Gale weather for the Most part Cloudy could not proceed there being a heavy sea in the Lake. the Indians went a Hunting and killed one small Moose which our Men brought in the Evening."

Aug. 19
" Monday Wind between NW & West Squally with Thunder and Rain at times. still weather bound. Rain'd & Thundered much in the Night."

Aug. 20
" Tuesday Wind WSW a Stiff Gale with flying Clouds in the Evening Rec'd One Small Deer from an Indian also one Beaver."

Aug. 21
" Wednesday Wind variable in the South Quarter fresh Breezes with clear Weather. still Weather Bound. set the Nets to day for fish but had little Succefs there being but few fish to be caught at this Season except in particular places."

Aug. 22
" Thursday Wind variable in the East quarter weather cloudy and blowed fresh towards Noon at Eight OClock we proceeded and at One in the Afternoon obliged to put ashore and had some Difficulty in landing there being a great surff on the Shore."

Aug. 23
" Friday Wind SE a strong Gale Weather Cloudy with Rain at times. the Men moving Canoes and Goods up the Bank a great surff upon the Shore."

Aug. 24
" Saturday Wind NW a Strong Gale thick CloudyWeather with Small Rain all Day. sent six Men to bring moose flesh, late in the Evening they Returned brought near 200 lb good Meat."

Aug. 25
" Sunday Wind and Weather as yesterday still Weather Bound. sent thirteen Men to bring Moose Flesh. in the Evening they Returned brought about 400 lb of very good Meat."

Aug. 26
" Monday Wind variable in the North quarter fresh Breezes with clear Weather. at four OClock we proceeded and at five in the Evening put up on the long point. paid the Indians for the Moose flesh we have had from them lately and they got Drunk."

Aug. 27
" Tuesday Little Wind variable with clear Weather till noon Afterwards blowed Fresh from the SE. at three OClock we Embarked and at four in the Evening Obliged to put on shore the wind blowing Fresh and a heavy Swell on. one of our Canoes as also the Indians are a long way behind."

Aug. 28
" Wednesday Wind SSE a stiff gale with clear weather 'till the Evening afterwards calm'd. at three we proceeded and at six put up at the great Fall the Canoe that was behind came up, but the Indians did not."

Aug. 29
" Thursday Wind variable from SW to NE fresh Breezes with clear Weather. at four OClock we proceeded to the Carrying place there being too much Water for leading up the Fall. carryed till six in the Evening then put up about half way over. the Sandflies very troublesome."

Aug. 30
" Friday Wind Westerly a Strong Gale with Rain at Times. at noon finished carrying over the carrying place and put up to wait for the Indians that are behind."

Aug. 31
" Saturday Wind NW weather as yesterday . sent the young Indians and Charles Isham to Kill Sturgeon in the Evening they Returned with four fine Fish. one Indian Canoe came up but have seen nothing of the other two."

Sept. 1 1782
" Sunday Wind Easterly a small Breeze with Cloudy Weather. sent Charles Isham and two Indians to kill Fish Sturgeon in the Evening they Returned with three Small Fish. the Indians that was behind came up all Safe."

Sept. 2
" Monday Wind as yesterday weather cloudy with Rain alternately. early this Morning one of the Canadian Canoes arrived these Inform me of twenty two more on the Road, fifteen of which are bound for the northward four are going up Saskachewan River, three as also this one for the Red Deers River. Mr Holmes informs me that they have broke up partner ship and several of them are Broke for want of Money to Answer their Credidt."

Sept. 3
" Tuesday Wind westerly a fresh Breeze Weather part cloudy part clear with a smart Shower of Rain. at five OClock we proceeded and at nine in the Evening put up at the Entrance of the Cedar Lake."

Sept. 4
" Wednesday Wind NW a strong Gale with clear weather 'till the Evening afterwards Calmed and Varied to WSW at five in the Evening we proceeded and at ten put up on the long point about half way over the Lake. five Canoes with the Indians did not come up."

Sept. 5
" Thursday Wind variable from WSW to SE and blowed fresh till the Evening afterwards Calm'd. carryed acrofs the neck of Land and at nine put up at the South Branch of Saskachewan River."

Sept. 6
" Friday Wind NW a Stiff Gale weather part cloudy part clear with Rain at times. at five OClock we Embarked and at eight in the Evening put up. five Canoes with the Indians still behind."

Sept. 7
" Saturday Wind as yesterday but more moderate with clear Weather. at four OClock we proceeded and at seven in the Evening put up about twelve Miles below U Basquiau."

Sept. 8
" Sunday Wind NNW a very heavy gale with a Continual Rain throughout the Day."

Sept. 9
" Monday Wind WNW a Stiff Breeze weather sometimes cloudy and some times clear. at five OClock we proceeded and at noon put up at U Basquiau, this being a noted place for fish. we set the nets caught two pike."

Sept. 10
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a small Breeze with clear Weather till the Evening afterwards blowed fresh with a little Rain. at five OClock we proceeded and at six put up. we had great succefs with our nets in the Night, having caught 50 Guinards, 10 pike and 11 perch this Day we found three places were one Man had put up which I suppose to be Magnus Sclater, as we found M.S. marked on Birch Rind with a piece of Burnt Coal a little above U Basquiau."

Sept. 11
" Wednesday Wind variable in the South quarter fresh Breezes with clear Weather. at four OClock we proceeded and at one put up at the Fishing Wire to kill fish here. I received the agreeable news of Magnus Sclater's being alive and pafsed by here a few Days ago."

Sept. 12
" Thursday Wind and Weather as yesterday. at ten OClock we proceed'd at Eight in the Evening Arrived safe at Cumberland House where thank God we found all well. Charles Isham came to us this Morning when at the Wire but have not seen any of the others since we parted in the Cedar Lake. Caught 100 Guinards at the Wire this Morning."

" From Cumberland House to Hudson's House"

Sept. 19
" Thursday Wind Northerly a fresh Breeze weather part cloudy part Clear. took a Survey of the Trading goods Stores &c and put George Hudson in Charge . in the Morning I Embarked for Hudsons House paddled till eight then put up about eight Miles above the little River. I afsure your Honors there is nothing induces me to do this, but great Complaints from the men and William Walker's imprudent management of your Honors Affairs. one Man was lost last Spring which has been saved by the great mercy of God. another has been Drowned this Summer a third Man & himself narrowly escaped being killed by Riding of Horses which are all for want of proper Caution."

Sept. 20
" Friday Wind as yesterday weather Cloudy with a Continuance of snow and Sleet all Day which prevents our proceeding."

Sept. 21
" Saturday Wind and Weather as yesterday 'till Noon afterwards a little moderate at two we proceeded and at seven put up where our Men had gone from this Morning?"

Sept. 22
" Sunday Wind variable from NW to South fresh Breezes weather part Cloudy part clear. at half past five we proceeded and at six in the Evening put up a little below the high Bank. at three OClock came up with our people found all well."

Sept. 23
" Monday Wind Southerly a fresh Breeze with clear Weather a Strong frost last Night. at six OClock we proceeded and paddled till five in the Evening then put up at the first Tracking Ground."

Sept. 24
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. at four OClock sent Eight Men to fetch the Flesh of a Moose that the young Indian man killed last Evening and at nine they Returned & at Eleven proceeded tracked 'till six then put up."

Sept. 25
" Wednesday Wind variable light Breezes weather part Cloudy part Clear. at five we proceeded and paddled till six in the Evening them put up. a strong current all Day."

Sept. 26
" Thursday Wind variable with clear pleasant Weather. at six we proceeded and tracked & paddled till six in the Evening then put up."

Sept. 27
" Friday Wind Westerly a Stiff Breeze with clear Weather. a Strong frost last night at five OClock we proceeded and tracked till Nine then came up with the Indian Man that came down with Andrew Corrigal from Hudson's House. he had killed one Red Deer which I sent five Men for but did not Return before five in the Evening. bro't 200 lb of flesh."

Sept. 28
" Saturday Wind SW a fresh Breeze weather clear till noon afterwards Cloudy and blowed very hard. we proceeded a little way theu Obliged to lay by, not being able to track against the Wind & Current."

Sept. 29
" Sunday Wind Westerly a Moderate Breeze with Clear weather. at five OClock we proceeded & tracking till five in the Evening then put up."

Sept. 30
" Monday Wind NW a small Breeze with clear fine Weather. at half past five we proceeded and tracked till six in the Evening then put up. had one Red Deer killed to Day by the young Indian Man. a strong Frost last night."

Oct. 1 1782
" Tuesday Wind variable from SE to NW weather as yesterday 'till the Evening afterwards blowed very hard. at five OClock we proceeded tracked till half past five in the Evening then put up. at Noon we pafsed by the South Branch. the Current very Strong most part of the Day. Late in the Evening three Canadians went past on their Journey to the Red Rivers. Mr Holme's Baggage to where he is going to Winter."

Oct. 2
" Wednesday Wind Northerly a fresh Breeze with cold freezing weather. at six OClock we Embarked and tracked till five in the Evening then put up at the End of the tracking. two Canoes narrowly Escaped being overset by the tracking Lines Breaking when in Strong currents and amongst the Rocks. indeed they have been very bad this year and no more than 30 fathoms long when in many places 40 and 45 fathoms are Required to be out at Once."

Oct. 3
" Thursday Wind and Weather as yesterday and much Snow fell in the Night. at half past six we proceeded paddled till five in the Evening then put up about five Miles above the Canadian House."

Oct. 4
" Friday Wind WSW a Small Breeze first part Cloudy latter part clear with fine Weather. at six we Embarked paddled till Eleven then put ashore at the setting River with Mr Longmoore & walked over land to Hudsons House where we Arrived at five in the Evening."

Oct. 5
" Saturday Little Wind Easterly weather part cloudy part clear. the Men employed about necefsary Duty within Doors. at noon our people Arrived with the Canoes and Cargoes all safe. two Afsineepoet Indians that came yesterday for Tobacco went away."

Oct. 6
" Sunday Wind variable a small Breeze first part Cloudy latter part Clear fine Weather. three Indians arrived from the Northward for Tobacco and went away again immediately also towards Evening two more came bro't a little green Moose flesh which they Traded for Liquor and got Drunk. took an Inspection of the Trading Goods provisions &c by which I find there has been Traded and Otherwise Expended goods to the Amount of 897 2/3 made Beaver since the 9th of may Chiefly in Brandy Tobacco Ammunition & knives, there has been Traded for the Above Mention'd goods 274 made Beaver in Different Sorts of Furs. provisions as follows Remaining in the House Viz. Dried meat 1629 lb, Beat Meat 1693 lb, fat 963 lb. late in the Evening three young Indians Arrived from the Westward brought a few Beaver skins which they Traded for Liquor."

Oct. 7
" Monday Wind ESE light Breezes weather as yesterday. two Men making cloathing for trade. three Men doing necefsary Duty within Doors. the Rest Employed Collecting Firewood. the Indians that came yesterday went away. I sent by them some Small presents for their Tentmates as an Interduction for them to bring their furs here."

Oct. 8
" Tuesday Wind variable from South to West. fresh Breezes weather Cloudy with Rain towards Evening. the Men Employed collecting Firewood. at Noon the Afsinnepoets arrived brought a few furs part of which came here and the Rest went to the Canadians. in the Evening they Traded a little Liquor and got Drunk. as also did two tents that came from the Northward mention'd on Sunday last. these have brought nothing but a trifle of provisions. they say that they have a great many furs laid up but could not bring them now as it was far off and many Lakes & Rivers to Crofs."

Oct. 9
" Wednesday Little Wind Northerly weather for the most part clear. one Man attending the Gates. two Men making cloathing for the men. the Rest Employed falling and carrying in Stockadoes. at noon the two Indians returned that went for Birch Rind on the 30th of last month they have brought two horse loads, some Red Deers meat and a few Ducks. Isaac Batt also came home with the Horse for fear the Afsinepoets should steal some of them as they are great thieves."

Oct. 10
" Thursday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze with thick Cloudy Weather. a Strong frost last Night sent James Spence and James Gaddy to take care of the Horse. the Taylors as Before. Mr Longmoore and two Men laying up the Canoes. the Rest Employed Carrying in Stockadoes. the Afsineepoiet Indians traded & went away as also did those from the Northward."

Oct. 11
" Friday Wind ESE a Stiff Gale with a heavy fall of Snow which Continued most part of last Night and all this Day. the Men Employed about necefsary Jobbs within Doors. rec'd five Beaver from Indian hunters."

Oct. 12
" Saturday Wind Northerly a fresh Gale with Cloudy Weather. ten Men carrying Stockadoes the taylors as before. the rest Employed clearing the Snow of the House and putting parchment on the Windows. Received a Small Jumping Deer from an Indian Man. James Spence came home for provisions and Returned again."

Oct. 13
" Sunday Wind variable fresh Breeze with cold raw cloudy weather froze hard last night. received one Beaver from an Indian Hunter."

Oct. 14
" Monday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday a strong frost last Night and much Ice Driving in the River. the people Employed collecting Firewood. at Noon six Tents of Indians Arrived from acrofs the River. part went to the Canadians and part came here. they have bro't a few Wolves and a little provisions part of which they Traded & got Drunk; two Tents also arrived from within those Mr Walker sent away for Birch Rind sometime agoe. they have bro't 6 Roles part of which they Traded & got Drunk with the others. late in the Evening four Fall Indians arrived, two went to the Canadians and the others came here. these are come from the same that had Tobacco from Mr Walker some time in last Month. this is a custom they have all learnt to come three or four times for Tobacco before they came to any Settlement and then not come at all. Indeed I Believe they have learnt a great part of this bad Practise very lately as there was no such thing when I was last here."

Oct. 15
" Tuesday Wind WSW a small Breeze thick Weather with a Drizzling Snow. sent Isaac Batt away with the two fall Indians that came yesterday not chusing to trust them with the Tobacco for fear they should Never Return. Indeed all the Indians that are alive is turned very great Rogues and are very bad to Deal with. the people Employed collecting Firewood."

Oct. 16
" Wednesday Wind variable light Breezes with clear fine Weather and thaw'd much towards Evening. five Men Repairing the Men's Chimney. one Man attending the Gates and the Rest Employed about various Duty. traded a little provisions and a few wolves for Liquor and the Indians got Drunk. rec'd one Beaver from an Indian Hunter."

Oct. 17
" Thursday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. fitted out seven Viz. Mr Longmoore, Malchom Rofs, James Spence, Andrew Corrigal, William Flatt, William Omen, and James Gaddy and sent them with the Indians to be supported during the Winter. the Rest Employed digging up Roots where the Stockades are to be ? out. Rec'd one Beaver and a little Red Deers flesh from an Indian Man."

Oct. 18
" Friday Wind Easterly a Stiff Gale with thick cloudy Weather fitted out Charles Isham and sent him away with some Indians that are going a Beaver Hunting.. the Rest Employed about various Jobbs. paid the Indians for what Birch Rind they have brought and they went away as also did the others."

Oct. 19
" Saturday Little Wind variable weather part cloudy part clear. two Men hewing Timber pieces for Boards for necefsary Uses. the Rest Employed collecting Firewood. in the Evening two Indians Arrived from the Barren Ground bro't one Wolf Skin & a Tent which they Traded for Liquor & Ammunition. Isaac Batt also Returned and brought the Tobacco Back according to Order as the Rogues that sent for it are 100 miles from this place Altho' they told me they were within one Days Journey. Indeed I suspected them to be Lyars for which Reason I sent the Man away with the Tobacco."

Oct. 20
" Sunday Wind SW a fresh Gale with Cold raw? Cloudy weather. fitted out Isaac Batt James Batt James Spence Junior to go too the Barren Ground to maintain themselves during the Winter."

Oct. 21
" Monday Wind NW a Stiff Gale weather for the Most part Cloudy sent four Men to cut grafs for covering for the Canoes. two Men sawing a few Boards for present use. the Rest collecting Firewood. at Noon Isaac Batt and the other two Men went away as also did the two Indians that came on Saturday. late in the Evening Mr Will. Lockey Will Lutit Mitchell Omen James Omen James Johnston and John Sebaston arrived from whom we received the Disagreeable news of your Honors Northern Settlements having Surrendered to the Arms of his Christian Majesty which news have given me great Concern for the Lofs your Honors have sustained. Indeed it has put me to a Stand how to act as our Stock of Goods are but small and provisions comes very Dear to what it used to do occasioned by the Death of the Natives."

" Copy of a Letter received from George Hudson
Cumberland House October 6th 1782
Kind Sir,
By the Arrival of Mr Wlliam Lockey and two more Englishmen Oct. 2d I received the Alarming News of their Honors Settlements of York Fort and Prince Wales Fort surrendering to the Arms of his Christian Majesty their force consisting of One Seventy four and two thirty six gun Frigates having with them One thousand Regulars. they first went to Prince Wales Fort which after taking their Houses? Effects and servants on Board erased it to the Ground. they then proceeded to York Fort which Undoubtedly will share the same fate. the place having surrendered and Centinels placed when Mr Lockey and those with Him was sent to fetch up the Shallop, had bad Weather coming in he was forced on the Eastern shore, and proceeded up the River to where the Indians was tenting, of them he got a trifling Supply, which Enabled him to Reach this place. I cannot Sir relate every particular circumstance, but shall Refer you to Mr William Lockey who can give you a more fuller Account.

Mr Lockey being desirous of seeing the Barren Ground. I have fitted him out as Circumstances will permit as also those with him Viz. William Lutit, Mitchell Omen and James Omen. I have also sent James Johnston and John Sebaston as there is no probability of there being Maintained here having had but little Succefs of Fish and very few Geese. I have had a little provisions from Natowecappo and those with him. he Also has promised to come in to me with provisions in the Winter. I have trusted them Debt and made them small presents to Encourage them. those you left here are up Sturgeon River. I Expect them in Every Day as in all Appearances the Winter is coming fast. I shall Exert myself Sir to the Utmost, to get them to bring what provisions they can as Also to Build Canoes, as no Afsistance can be expected from below in case their Honors Ship should not Arrive. I have Sir the Happinefs to Inform you of their Honors Ship the King George Capt. Jonathon Fowler getting safe out with the Homeward bound Cargoe as Also the Churchill Ship Capt. Will. Christopher returning Back without going into Harbour. Capt. Christopher seeing three Sail immediately put about. the Seventy four and one Frigate weighed and Stood after Him but could not come up with Him so was forced to Return in as they went out. Having nothing more to say at present with the Sincerest Regret for their Honors Lofs and Wishing a Speedy Reinstatement to their Honors Affairs. I remain
Kind Sir
Your most Obedient Humble Servant
George Hudson."

Oct. 22
" Tuesday Wind SE a small Breeze weather part Cloudy part clear sent six Men in two Canoes to bring home the Grafs that was cut yesterday. the Rest Employed about various Duty."

Oct. 23
" Wednesday Wind NW a fresh Breeze weather as yesterday sent six Men for Grafs one Man sharpning the pit & crofs cut saws. the Rest Employed fitting the Stockadoes to the Ribbons. in the Evening two Tents of Indians, arrived from the Northward, some of them went to the Canadians, and the rest came here. these have brought some furs that was laid up last Winter by other Indians that Died."

Oct. 24
" Thursday Wind variable in the north Quarter weather for the most part clear. sent William Lutit James Johnston and John Sebaston down to Cumberland House with 200 lb Fat the Rest Employed digging a trench & fitting Stockadoes to Ribbons. the Indians Still Trading a little Liquor at both Houses & continue Drinking. this morning an Indian Man and his Wife Arrived with two Horse loads of Red Deers flesh."

" Copy of a Letter sent to George Hudson
Hudsons House October 23d 1782
Mr George Hudson
Sir,
I Received the Alarming News on the 21st Instant by the Arrival of Mr William Lockey and the five Englishmen which news has given me great Concern for the Lofs their Honors have sustained and for the trouble and fatigue their Servants will Endure before they be relieved out of their Distrefs. Sir I am surprised that you should have sent up any of the Men that I left at Cumberland House untill you had first heard from me as your Stock of provisions there is more than what is here, fat Excepted. I afsure you there is as much prospect of Maintaining ten Men at Cumberland House as there is of my maintaining the Number here at present had you sent up Goods I should not have thought so much of it as you well knew the Quantity of Goods I carried from Cumberland House were not sufficient to Maintain an Additional Number of Men, especially as the principal part of what Tobacco and Brandy remain'd at Hudsons House was gone before my Arrival and Indeed but very small Returns for it. You are to be Strictly careful of Tobacco, Brandy & Ammunition as I shall want a great part of it. you are not to let the Men have any Brandy upon any Account whatever as you know when that Article is gone we may Starve.

I have sent down the following persons Viz. William Lutit James Johnston and John Sebaston you will Receive from the Bearers fat 200 lb as to other provisions I cannot spare any there being but a small Stock here. I have sent out twelve Men with Ammunition into the plains to maintain themselves during the Winter and shall send some more as soon as any Indians Arrives that I can send them with. If you should not be able to maintain the Men with Fish at the House. send some of them down to U.Basquiau with Hooks and there they will get plenty about the beginning of February and if industrious some foxes & Martins and as soon as the Winter sets in that Men can travel I shall send down for what Goods are wanting. with wishing you and all under your Command Health & Happinefs I remain Sir
Your most Obedient and Well Wisher
Will. Tomison."

Oct. 25
" Friday Wind Easterly a small Breeze with Cloudy Weather snowed a little in the Night. the people Employed about various Jobbs. at Noon four young Indians came acrofs the River for Tobacco, also four fall Indians. to the former I gave, but to the Latter did not, as they had tobacco from here near a month agoe."

Oct. 26
" Saturday Wind SW a fresh Gale weather as yesterday. the Men Employed digging a trench and sawing Ribbons for the Stockadoes. at Noon Seven tents of Fall Indians and three of Pegogeme? Indians arrived from acrofs the River, but have brought little or nothing with them."

Oct. 27
" Sunday Wind northerly a fresh Gale weather cloudy with snow Towards Evening. the Indians that came yesterday Traded what they brought and some of them went away. also Traded with those that came on the 23d Instant these have brought 180 good parchment Beaver."

Oct. 28
" Monday Little Wind from the NE quarter first part cloudy latter part clear fine Weather. the Men Employed fitting Stockadoes to Ribbons and digging a trench for ditto. Mr William Lockey being desirous to see the Buffalo Country. I fitted him out as also Mitchell Omen and James Omen & sent them away with the Indians to be Supported as provisions are not likely to be very plenty this year more than it was last."

Oct. 29
" Tuesday Wind variable light Breezes weather for the Most part Clear. four Men pointing the House with mud. the Rest Employed setting up Stockadoes. the Indians went away that Arrived on the 23d Instant with those I have sent William Walker and two Horses a days Journey in case they should kill a Beast to bring in some green Meat. a Strong Frost last Night."

Oct. 30
" Wednesday Wind WSW a small Breeze with thick Cloudy Weather and a little Snow at times. two Men clearing away the Rubbish out of the yard. John Irvin lame having cut his leg so much yesterday that I was Obliged to sew it up. the rest setting up Firewood."

Oct. 31
" Thursday Wind SW a fresh Gale weather as yesterday. the Men Employed fitting Stockadoes to the Ribbons and digging a trench for do."

Nov. 1 1782
" Friday Wind variable from SW to West a Stiff gale with clear weather a little Ice Driving in the River. one Man still lame the rest Employed pointing the House and setting up Stockadoes."

Nov. 2
" Saturday Little Wind Northerly with Cloudy Weather. the Men Employed as yesterday. late in the Evening William Walker came home brought me horse load of Red Deers flesh he Informs me that there are some more left where he came from at noon, which please God I shall send the Men for tomorrow."

Nov. 3
" Sunday Wind Easterly a Stiff Breeze with cold freezing Weather. sent William Walker with nine Men for flesh and in the Evening they Returned with the Greatest part of four Red Deer the Man and his Wife also came back with them to get payment for the Meat."

Nov. 4
" Monday Wind variable a small Breeze with Cloudy freezing weather and much Ice Driving in the River the Men finished the Stockadoes and did odd Jobbs about the House the Indian Traded his Meat and went away at noon."

Nov. 5
" Tuesday Wind Northerly a small Breeze with clear mild Weather. one Man getting stuff for Snow shoe frames. one man still lame. the Rest Employed digging up Roots from within the Stockadoes."

Nov. 6
" Wednesday Wind NE a small Breeze weather as yesterday the Men Employed collecting Firewood."

Nov. 7
" Thursday Wind ENE a small Breeze thick Cloudy Weather with a little Snow the Men Employed as yesterday. John Irvin still lame."

Nov. 8
" Friday Wind variable in the South Quarter with snowy weather. at Noon two Men getting snow shoe frames the Rest Employed collecting Firewood."

Nov. 9
" Saturday Wind Northerly a stiff Breeze thick Weather with a Continuance of Snow the Men cut a little Firewood."

Nov. 10
" Sunday Wind Westerly a fresh Gale weather Cloudy with a little Snow at times."

Nov. 11
" Monday Wind WSW a Stiff gale weather part Cloudy part clear. much Ice Driving in the River sent two Men to look out for Rabbits but returned without succefs. one Man Repairing old Sleds. James Morwick cleaning the pistols and Repairing one that was broken. the Rest cut Firewood. at noon two young Indians arrived from Acrofs the River these have come from the Indians that brought us a good Quantity of Birch Rind for Canoes and has promised to Build a Canoe or two he has sent for the loan of a Gun which Demand I shall be Obliged to Comply with Altho' grately against my Inclination."

Nov. 12
" Tuesday Wind variable almost calm with clear warm Weather and thawed a little towards noon. two Men setting up a few traps and making cloathing for the Rest and the others Employed about various Duty. the Ice driving so thick in the River that we could not crofs those that came yesterday."

Nov. 13
" Wednesday Wind Southerly a fresh Breeze weather as yesterday. sent two Men to get stuff for Sleds and one to look for two horse that went a stray a few days agoe, but returned without finding them. the Rest cut Firewood. the Lame Man much worse then he was, there is part of the Bone now in sight. indeed I am afraid that he will loose his leg and after that his Life. late in the Evening a young Indian arrived from within for us to come and fetch meat."

Nov. 14
" Thursday Wind and Weather as yesterday. sent William Walker and eight Men to fetch Meat also sent the two young Indians a Hunting as they could not get acrofs for Ice."

Nov. 15
" Friday Little Wind Easterly with clear fine Weather. late in the Evening the people returned brought the Flesh of two Moose a great part of which are not Eatable by Bad Management of the Natives. the two young Indians also returned from hunting but had no Succefs."

Nov. 16
" Saturday Wind Variable almost calm weather as before. one man hewing Stuff for Sleds. the Rest cut Firewood and did odd Jobbs within Doors. paid the Indians for the Moose flesh that was brot yesterday and at Noon he went away. this Morning the two young Indians that arrived on the 11th Instant went away. I was Obliged to Comply with their Request of the Lend of a Gun as the Man that asked for it has been a Leader at York Fort and the only one I know that is alive thoughout the Country."

Nov. 17
" Sunday Little wind Westerly with clear weather till the Evening afterwards varied to the NW and blowed fresh."

Nov. 18
" Monday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with clear fine Weather. two Men getting stuff for Sleds. the Rest collecting firewood. 1 Cat from the Mens traps to Day."

Nov. 19
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. the Taylor making Cloathing for the Men. the Rest Employed as yesterday. John Irvin something Better, we have boiled the Country Tea for this? fourth night past and fomented the Wound two times a day which has been of very great Use."

Nov. 20
" Wednesday Wind SW a small Breeze weather part cloudy part clear and thawed little or nothing to Day. one Man hewing Stuff for Sleds. three Men cut Firewood. Mr Walker with the Rest turning over the provisions and put it into the Out Office. one Wejack from the traps to day."

Nov. 21
" Thursday Wind NW a fresh Breeze weather for the Most part Cloudy. one Man hewing Stuff for Sleds. the Taylor at work for the Men. the Rest cut Firewood."

Nov. 22
" Friday Wind SW a fresh Gale with cold raw cloudy Weather. the people Employed as yesterday. 1 Cat from the traps to Day."

Nov. 23
" Saturday Wind and Weather as yesterday. one Man planing stuff for Sleds. the Rest Employed as before. John Irvin much better the wound having filled up greatly, so that I hope there is no Danger of him losing his leg as I Expected. 1 small rat from the traps to Day."

Nov. 24
" Sunday Wind NW a fresh Gale weather for the most part cloudy Blowed very hard last Night."

Nov. 25
" Monday Wind Southerly a Small Breeze with Cloudy warm Weather. one Man planing stuff for Sleds. three Men with Myself fell a few timber pieces to saw for flooring. the Rest Employed about various Duty. 1 Catt from the traps to Day."

Nov. 26
" Tuesday Wind NW a Strong Gale with flying Clouds. one Man planing stuff for Sleds. two Men pointing part of the Inside of the House with Mud. and Repairing the Master Chimney the Rest cut Firewood."

Nov. 27
" Wednesday Little wind variable with Cloudy warm weather. one Man planing Stuff for Sleds. Mr Walker and Myself getting snow shoe frames. the Rest cut Firewood. 1 Weejack from the traps to day."

Nov. 28
" Thursday Calm clear fine Weather two Men sewing Sleds the Rest collecting Firewood."

Nov. 29
" Friday Wind NW a fresh Breeze with clear Weather. the people Employed as yesterday."

Nov. 30
" Saturday Wind SW Weather as yesterday the people Employed about various Duty. 1 Weejack from the traps to Day."

Dec. 1 1782
" Sunday Little Wind variable with thick cloudy Weather. at noon nine black Foot Indians arrived, two of which only came here and the Rest went to the Canadian House. we are greatly at a Lofs of not knowing the Language of the tribe as also the fall Indians and indeed never will without Men goes and lives with them for some Years as that is the way that the Canadians have acquired the Language."

Dec. 2
" Monday Wind variable from South to North small Breezes weather part cloudy part clear. the people Employed making Sleds and cutting Firewood. traded with the Indians and they went away. they have brought 26 Wolves and a few small Foxes."

Dec. 3
" Tuesday Wind Northerly with a moderate Breeze till Noon afterwards blowed hard South clear sharp weather. the Men Employed as Yesterday. in the Evening two Indians arrived from the Southward bro't a few Wolves Skins to trade for Tobacco."

Dec. 4
" Wednesday Wind NW a Stiff gale with severe sharp weather the Taylor making cloathing for the Men. two Men making a saw pit and the Rest cut Firewood. John Irvin upon duty the Wound is almost entirely whole. those that came yesterday traded what they brought but the Badnefs of the Weather prevented them from going away."

Dec. 5
" Thursday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze weather mostly cloudy but not so cold as yesterday. the Men Employed collecting Firewood. the Indians went away that arrived on the 3d Instant."

Dec. 6
" Friday Wind Northerly a small Breeze weather cloudy with a little Snow. two Men sawing plank for flooring. the Rest Employed as yesterday. one Wolf from the traps to Day."

Dec. 7
" Saturday Wind variable cloudy Weather with a Drizzling snow at times. two Men at the Saw and the Rest cut Firewood. Mr Walker went a hunting with an Indian lad."

Dec. 8
" Sunday Wind variable in the North quarter fresh Gales weather cloudy with Snow at times."

Dec. 9
" Monday Wind Easterly a small Breeze with thick Rimy weather. one man making cloathing for Trade two Men sawing plank the Rest cut Firewood. one Cat from the traps to day."

Dec. 10
" Tuesday Wind SW a fresh Breeze weather as before sent one Man acrofs the River to look for Rabbits but returned without seeing any tracks. the Rest Employed as yesterday."

Dec. 11
" Wednesday Wind NW a Strong Gale with Drifting Weather. the people Employed as before."

Dec. 12
" Thursday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze with clear mild weather. two Men hewing planks the Taylor making for Trade. the Rest cut a little Firewood afterwards put up a few traps along the River side and brought one cat from those put up before. in the Evening Mr Walker and the Indian lad returned but have had no succefs in Hunting."

Dec. 13
" Friday Little Wind variable with clear warm Weather. two Men sawing plank. one Man looking after some Snares brought three Rabbits. the Rest with the Dogs hauling home Dry wood for fewel."

Dec. 14
" Saturday Wind Easterly a small Breeze with clear sharp air. sent Mr Walker and two Men with the Indian lad to take a Beaver House about six Miles below this. the Rest Employed about various Duty."

Dec. 15
" Sunday Wind NE weather much the same as yesterday. towards Evening three tents of the Afsineepoiet Indians arrived, the greater part of which went to the Canadian House. all owing to one of their Men that Understands the Language. this proceedings caused some words between me and them."

Dec. 16
" Monday Little Wind variable Weather part Cloudy part clear. two Men sawing plank. two Men with some of the Canadians clearing a piece of Ground for the Natives to tent on a proper Distance from both Houses. the Rest with the Dogs hauling home dry wood for fewel. the Beaver Hunters returned without any Succefs. also one tent of the Afsinepoiet Indians arrived towards Evening Traded a few Wolves and a trifle of provisions. they never have traded here before."

Dec. 17
" Tuesday Wind SW a fresh Breeze Weather part Cloudy part clear. the people Employed as yesterday. the Indians that came yesterday went away. as also did those that came before. at Noon a young Indian lad arrived from the Southward brought eight Skins which he Traded for Tobacco and went away again in the Evening. One Wolvereen from the traps to Day."

Dec. 18
" Wednesday Little Wind Southerly with warm cloudy weather. two Men sawing plank for flooring. two Men Employed about necefsary Duty within Doors. the Rest cut Firewood."

Dec. 19
" Thursday Wind WSW fresh Breezes with clear fine Weather and thawed a little towards Noon. sent Mr Walker and George Rofs away with an Indian Man whom I have Employed to hunt for us some distance from the House, as our provisions are growing Short and no great prospect of any coming in. the Taylor at work for the Men. two Men sawing planks and the rest cut Firewood. one wolf from a Gun that was set last Evening."

Dec. 20
" Friday Wind Westerly a small Breeze with cloudy Weather. two Men sawing plank. one Man looking at the Snares two Rabbits. the Taylor at work for the Men and the Rest cut Firewood. two Weejacks from the traps to Day."

Dec. 21
" Saturday Wind SW a fresh Breeze with cold raw cloudy weather. the people Employed as yesterday. 1 wolf from the traps to Day."

Dec. 22
" Sunday Wind variable from SW to West a Small Breeze with clear fine Weather. late in the Evening two Indians arrived from the Southward bro't a few Beaver and Wolves Skins which they Traded ready for going away in the Morning."

Dec. 23
" Monday Wind ENE a fresh Gale with cold raw cloudy weather. the Taylor at work for the Men. two Men sawing plank and the Rest cut Firewood; the Indians went away that came last Night. I have sent by them a Small present for the Man that got Birch Rind for us last Autumn. one Quiquahatch and one Cat from the traps to Day."

Dec. 24
" Tuesday Wind Northerly a small Breeze weather cloudy with a thick Rime. the Men Employed as yesterday. at noon two Indian Men and three Women Arrived from the Southward brought a few furrs and a little provisions. the Latter they Traded for Liquor and got Drunk. these belong to the Salahana.away? Tribe and has not been here before to Trade."

Dec. 25
" Wednesday Wind ENE a fresh Gale with cold freezing weather. at Noon Mr Walker and George Rofs returned. the Indian they went away with left them three Days agoe and told them to go Back as he had no Succefs in Hunting. they bro't one small Red Deer that Mr Walker killed yesterday. one of the Women that came yesterday died of an Apoplexy in the Night. she was hearty and well when she went to Bed, but was found dead in the Morning by her tentmates. towards Evening one Indian Man and his Family arrived from the Southward brot some Green and half Dryed Red Deer's Flesh and tolerable well gooded in Beaver. none of these have had the small pox as yet."

Dec. 26
" Thursday Wind NE a fresh Breeze weather as yesterday. traded with the Indians that came on the 24th Instant and gave them all the Encouragement I could to kill Furs and come again in the Spring which they have promised to do. in the Evening Buried the Indian Woman."

Dec. 27
" Friday Wind Southerly a fresh Gale weather clear and pretty sharp. Traded with the Indian that came on the 25th Instant and made him a present of some Tobacco, Brandy, ammunition &c. as? he has brought 90 made Beaver in good furs which is the most I have Traded from one Man in this part of the Country."

Dec. 28
" Saturday Wind SW a small Breeze with clear fine Weather. fitted out Mr Walker and one Man and sent them away with the Indians to be supported."

Dec. 29
" Sunday Wind Westerly a Small Breeze with clear Weather and thawed much under the Lee. a Smart rain in the Night afterwards hail. at nine in the Morning Mr Walker arrived on horse Back to inform me that the Indian man had killed a red Deer yesterday morning for which I sent four Men with Dogs to bring the Flesh and they Returned late at night."

Dec. 30
" Monday Wind Southerly a fresh Breeze with Cloudy mild Weather. the Men Employed looking after guns and traps and cutting Firewood. 1 Wolf from one of the Set Guns."

Dec. 31
" Tuesday Wind NW a Stiff Breeze with clear sharp Wr. two men sawing plank. one Man looking after guns and traps and brought one Cat from the Latter, the rest cut Firewood."

Jan. 1 1783
" Wednesday Wind SW a small Breeze with mild Weather. late in the Evening an Indian Man and two young lads arrived from the Westward with a few furs to Trade. these have come from where Charles Isham are and have been four nights on their Journey hither."

Jan. 2
" Thursday Little Wind variable with Cloudy mild Weather. one Man looking afer Guns and traps the Rest Employed about various Duty. traded with the Indian that came last night and he went away. At Noon one Indian Man and his wife Arrived from the Southward, brought a few Furs and a trifle of provisions also two Afsineepoiet Indians came for Tobacco."

Jan. 3
" Friday Wind SW a fresh Breeze with Cloudy Weather till Noon afterwards clear and calm. two Men sawing plank and the Rest cut Firewood. the two Afsineepoiet Indians that came for Tobacco yesterday Evening went away. At Noon an Indian Man came from the Southward brought one Horse load of half Dried provisions and a few Furs which he Traded Ready for going away in the morning. two More Arrived but they went to the Canadians. 1 Wolvereen from the traps to Day."

Jan. 4
" Saturday Wind NW a Stiff gale Weather part cloudy part clear and very mild. one Man looking after Guns and traps & brought home 1 Wolf from the latter. the Rest Employed as yesterday. the Indians that came on the 2d Instant traded and went away as also did the Man that came yesterday. at Noon five Tents of Afsineepoiet Indians arrived from the touchwood Mountain to the Southward there is in this party 17? Stout Men two of which are Leaders that I made when last here and have been very trusty to this place ever since. the last year excepted occasioned by the Small pox getting amongst them carried off great part of their young Men, and they squandered far off into the Barren Ground and have been at no Settlement for these twelve Months past indeed I was informed by William Walker that the whole gang was Dead."

Jan. 5
" Sunday Wind Northerly a Small Breeze with clear fine Weather. traded with the Indians that came yesterday and presented the Leaders with a present as Ususal. they have brought 206 Wolves, 2 Foxes and 64 parchment Beaver, also 500 lb half Dried Buffaloe Meat, fat 206 lb, Beat Meat 156 lb and 30 lb of Buffaloe Tongues. at Noon Mitchell Omen & Andrew Corrigal arrived from the Barren Ground. they have brought 15 Beaver in Furs which is all they could collect from those they are with. the scarcity of provisions has rendered the Indians Incapable of Killing Furs."

Jan. 6
" Monday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. the Men employed about various Duty. the Afsineepoiet Indians went away Early this morning."

Jan. 7
" Tuesday Wind Easterly a moderate Breeze with clear weather. two Men sawing plank two Men looking after Guns and traps. brought 1 Wolf and 1 Quiquahatch. the Rest cut Firewood."

Jan. 8
" Wednesday Wind SW a fresh Breeze with Cloudy weather. one Man Attending guns and traps, brought one Cat and part of a Red Deer that the Wolves had killed about a mile below the House. the Men Employed sawing plank and cutting Firewood. Mitchell Omen and Andrew Corrigal returned back to their tent."

Jan. 9
" Thursday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with fine clear Weather. the people Employed as yesterday."

Jan. 10
" Friday Wind and Weather as yesterday. three Men getting Stuff for Sleds and the Rest cut Firewood and did trifling Duty within Doors."

Jan. 11
" Saturday Wind variable thick Weather with a drizsling snow 'till the Evening afterwards blowed hard from the NW the people employed about various Duty. one Quiquahatch from the traps to day."

Jan. 12
" Sunday Wind NW a fresh gale with cold freezing weather."

Jan. 13
" Monday Wind SW a fresh Breeze weather part cloudy part clear and not so cold as yesterday. one man Making Sleds. one Man attending Guns and traps brought 1 Cat from the latter the rest cut firewood."

Jan. 14
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. the people employed as Before. one Cat from the traps to day. at noon one Indian Man and two Women Arrived from the Northward brought a few furs and a little Red Deers flesh. also three more arrived and went to the Canadian Houses the Masters of which being for Different Inerests, had some disputes in dividing the Spoil."

Jan. 15
" Wednesday Little wind variable with clear fine weather. one Man Mending Guns and traps. brought one Cat from the latter. the Rest Employed about various Duty. the Indians Traded what they brought and went away at Noon; late in the Evening one young Man arrived for some Tobacco and Ammunition. also to tell us to come and fetch Moose flesh."

Jan. 16
" Thursday Wind Easterly almost calm with clear mild Weather. sent four Men with Dogs and Sleds to bring Meat. the Rest Employed sewing sleds and cutting firewood."

Jan. 17
" Friday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with fine clear weather. two Men making sleds and the Rest cut Firewood. and looked at the traps bro't 1 Cat."

Jan. 18
" Saturday Wind Northerly a fresh Gale with clear sharp weather the Men Emloyed as yesterday."

Jan. 19
" Sunday Wind variable from SW to North small Breezes with cold sharp weather."

Jan. 20
" Monday Wind WSW a stiff Breeze with clear sharp weather. the Men Employed about necefsary duty without Doors and attending traps and Guns brought one Cat from the former. late in the Evening the Men returned that went away on Thursday last brought 200 lb of provisions and 20 parchment Beaver."

Jan. 21
" Tuesday Wind NW Weather as yesterday. two Men laying the Floor of the Masters Apartment. one Man attending Guns and traps brought one Fox from the Latter the rest employed about various duty."

Jan. 22
" Wednesday Wind variable small Breezes with clear mild weather. two Men laying the Floor. two Men edging plank and the Rest cut Firewood. one Quiquahatch from the traps to Day."

Jan. 23
" Thursday Wind Southerly a Small Breeze weather part cloudy part clear and very mild. the Men Employed as yesterday."

Jan. 24
" Friday Wind variable in the North quarter weather mild and blows? a Stiff Gale at times.the Men Employed as before."

Jan. 25
" Saturday Wind SW a small Breeze weather part Cloudy part clear finished laying the guard Room floor and did other necefsary Jobbs about the House. one Wolvereen from the traps to Day."

Jan. 26
" Sunday Little wind variable with clear sharp Weather. late in the Evening an Indian boy and a Woman arrived brought 30 lb green moose flesh and two Quiquahatches. these have come from them that I have employed to hunt for us."

Jan. 27
" Monday Wind NNW a strong gale with snow and Drift which continued all Day. the Men employed about necefsary duty within Doors."

Jan. 28
" Tuesday Wind Westerly with clear moderate Weather 'till noon afterwards blowed a strong gale with snow and Drift. sent three Men away with the Indian Boy and Woman that Arrived on the 26th Instant to bring meat. the rest Employed within Doors."

Jan 29
" Wednesday Wind NNW a fresh Breeze with clear sharp weather. to Men puting up the Men's Cabbin's. sent the Rest to look at the traps and bring home the Guns as there is nothing about."

Jan. 30
" Thursday Wind between NW and West fresh Breezes weather as yesterday. one Man Employed putting up the Mens Bed places and the Rest cut Firewood."

Jan. 31
" Friday Wind WNW a small Breeze weather as before. the Men Employed carrying in Firewood."

Feb. 1 1783
" Saturday Wind SW a fresh Gale weather clear but not so sharp as before. sent two Men to bring a small Red Deer that an Indian killed yesterday and in the Evening they returned. as also did those sent away on Tuesday last with 250 lb of poor moose flesh. the Rest Employed cutting a little Firewood."

Feb. 2
" Sunday Wind NNW a small Breeze Weather part cloudy part clear with sharp Airs."

Feb. 3
" Monday Wind WSW a fresh Gale with clear sharp Weather the Men Employed cutting Firewood."

Feb. 4
" Tuesday Wind NW a Stiff Gale with a low Drift. four Men getting Ready for their Journey to Cumberland House and the rest cut Firewood. at Noon three Indians Arrived from the Southward bro't a little provisions but no Furs. also four Arrived from the Barren Ground Country, two fall and two of the Afsineepoiet Indians. the former will be here tomorrow, but the Latter has come from the Beaver Hills, and have been twelve Days on their Journey hither."

Feb. 5
" Wednesday Wind NNW weather as yesterday. two Men looking at traps but returned without succefs. the rest employed carrying in Firewood. late in the Evening five tents of Black foot and fall Indians arrived; three of which went to the Canadians House and the others came here."

Feb. 6
" Thursday Wind SW a small Breeze weather very sharp with rime falling. The people Employed about trifling Duty within Doors. since my Arrival here I have had several Scuffles with the Canadians in regard to the Natives, but this Day I was Obliged to go greater lengths or else to be run down, and laughed at which my Spirrit never will bear, while there is Breath in my Body. on my Arrival last Autumn. I found there had been a great deal of Goods wasted to no purpose in the course of the summer for which I called the three Masters into my room and made an agreement with them that no Tobacco should be sent to Indians before they came within a Days Journey of the Houses and that no Brandy should be sent upon any Account whatever; also when Indians arrived at the Houses there were not to be confined within the Works but to have a free pafs from House to House to trade with whom they were best dealt with. lastly that no furs should be taken from the Natives by force on their Arrival. all which they agreed too, but they have faithlesly broken the whole for which reason this Day I have confined one of the Traders in my room. Indeed I believe they know of know law, and they have neither Honor nor Honesty and use the Indians as they please."

Feb. 7
" Friday Wind Southerly a fresh Breeze weather part cloudy part clear with a little snow in the Evening. the people attending the House and doing odd Jobbs within Doors. the three Indians that Arrived on the fourth Instant went away, but the two Afsineepoiet Indians are still here. one of them being much froze in his heel and two of his toes. of the Latter I have cut part away. which was turned black. Indeed they were in a Starving Condition for want of Food. Late in the Evening Mr pangman came up from their lower House he being the Chief Master, he demanded my Authority for confining his partner. I also demanded to know what Authority they had to Confine the Natives, as they were a free people and had a right to Trade with whom they pleased. he also demanded the release of the Man in my Custody. I refused, telling him I would not rlease him until they would Acknowledge their Fault in Confining the Natives within their works."

Feb. 8
" Saturday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze with a Continuance of sharp Weather. five Men cut Firewood and the rest attending the House. the fall Indians Traded and went away. they have brought 90 Wolves and 400 lb of provisions. this Morning Mr Pangman came here and acknowledged they were in the wrong but it was by one of his Men that could talk the Language for which he had beat him very much. all this is but a lame exercise?. but on his promising to dismifs all those interpreters from their Houses here, which he did I released the Man in my Custody and parted Friends once more tho' greatest at a Distance."

Feb. 9
" Sunday Wind variable in the North quarter stiff Breezes Weather as before. fitted out four Men for their Journey to Cumberland House."

Feb. 10
" Monday Wind WSW a small Breeze with clear sharp weather. sent off Magnus Annell Edward Wishart James Berwick and James Merwick with a packet for Cumberland House. the Rest Employed cutting Firewood. at Noon an Indian arrived from the Southward, brought a few Skins upon his Back."

" Copy of a Letter sent to George Hudson
Hudsons House Febr'y 9th 1783
Sir,
When I wrote last to You I thought then to have Enquired after you long before this, but have been prevented from sending sooner for want of Snow. the Winter has been very mild until the latter part of January. but since it has been very Sharp. as to provisions there is neither a scarcity nor plenty. I have had enough to do to Maintain ten Men at the House without short Allowance and to save a small Stock before hand. Indeed the Men have been Obliged to goe for Meat, three and five Days Journey. which is more then ever was done here before. I have at present sixteen Men abroad, eleven of which I sent away short after my Arrival here. I also sent Mr Lockey, by his own desire away with some Indians, soon after he Arrived here. Also Mitchell Omen and James Omen but have heard but once from them since and that was far from being agreeable, as they were but poorly off for want of provisions Allowing to the scarenefs of the Buffaloe. A little more then a Month agoe I sent two Men away with the Indian called the Day Child Alias Keshikaa.awashish?, he came here on the 25th of December, and Informed me he had seen those you credited last Autumn. he also told me that the Cloudy Day Apinisue? Alias Neta.waw.acappew. one his name I do not know and a Bungee Indian. these have all been in at the lower House and Traded their fall hunt. from that to the Root? River where he was to find the Above mentioned Indians, for which Reason I have sent William Walker and George Rofs either to Stop their Debts or prevent their going to the Canadians. Indeed I am sorry to say William Walker gave more Attention to his own pleasure than he did for the Company's Interest, nay had he had the Company's Interest at heart, he would not have gone a visiting, to be absent from the House all night which Error I hope you will be prudent Enough never to be guilty of, had he given me a proper Answer to the Letter I sent him last February. I should not have been here without a proper Quantity of goods for Trade and to have given the Indians Encouragement, you know we had no Account of no more than 15 Tents of Southward Indians and seven of them died. from we went down and came up again of what I have seen and heard off there are above 40 Tents alive yet. and of the Different Tribes of the Afsineepoiet, Black foot, Fall, and Blood Indians there is above four times that Number. My Trade at present about 2000 made Beaver and if I had but Goods I do not Doubt but that there might be two or three thousand more got. The Canadians built a House up here last Summer at which they traded 10 1/2 Packs of good Beaver. and at this House. no more than 1 1/2 which I leave you to Judge if it was not a great neglect of him that had the Charge. Sir you will please to send by the Bearers the following Articles of Trading Goods Viz. Blankets 5, Cloth blue corded 11 yds, Red Corded 11 yds, Knives yew handle 24 No., large Roach 24 No., small Roach 24 No., Jack 24 No.., Shot low India 28 lb, Bristol 28 lb, Tobacco Brazil 30 lb, Brandy 8 Gall. should those now sent not be able to haul the above mention'd Goods you will therefore send sufficient Afsistance up with them. you will also send up what Leaf Tobacco there is at Cumberland House. you will be strictly careful not to Devulge the Misfortune that has happened to the Company's lower Settlements, for I afsure you no person here knows any thing of it but Myself, except those that brought the Disagreeable News. I conclude Wishing you Health & happinefs and all under your Command, and a happy Reastablishing of their Honors lower Settlements and Remain Sir
Your friend and Well Wisher
William Tomison.
P.S.
You will please to Give Magnus Annell & Ed. Wishart 1/2 yd Cloth Each for Stockings and all of them 1/2 yd Duffle should they want it."

Feb. 11
" Tuesday Wind NW a Stiff Gale with a low Drift. the Men Employed collecting dry wood for fewel."

Feb. 12
" Wednesday Wind Southerly a fresh Gale weather as yesterday. the Taylor making Cloathing for Trade the Rest Employed about odd Jobbs within Doors. the Indian that arrived on Monday traded and went away as also did the two Afsineepoiet Indians that Arrived on the fourth Instant."

Feb. 13
" Thursday Wind NE a fresh Breeze with clear sharp Weather. the Taylor at work for Trade. the Rest cut Firewood & cut out a water hole on the River. the Creek having froze entirely up with the late sharp weather."

Feb. 14
" Friday Wind ENE a fresh gale first part Clear latter part Cloudy with snow. the taylor employed as before the Rest with the Dogs hauling dry wood for fewell from acrofs the River."

Feb. 15
" Saturday Wind as yesterday thick Weather with snow all day. two Men cut a little firewood. the other three Employed within Doors."

Feb. 16
" Sunday Wind variable between NE and East fresh Breezes weather part Cloudy part clear. late in the Evening three Indians arrived from the Southward bro't a few furs & a trifle of provisions to Trade."

Feb. 17
" Monday Wind variable in the south quarter small Breezes with clear mild weather. the Men Employed carrying in firewood. the Indians that came last Evening traded and went away Early this Morning. In the Evening William Walker and an Indian lad arrived having left three more that accompanied them behind which he says will be here tomorrow."

Feb. 18
" Tuesday Wind ENE a Small Breeze first part clear latter part Cloudy with Snow. two Men sawing Boards the Rest cut Firewood. at Noon the Indians Arrived mentioned yesterday brought a few Furs to Trade."

Feb. 19
" Wednesday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze with clear mild Weather. the Men Employed as yesterday. traded with the Indians that came yesterday. one of them having had Credit at Cumberland House last Autumn. I have therefore stopt part of his Debt and would have stoped the whole had not Will. Walker again gone back with them."

Feb. 20
" Thursday Wind Southerly a fresh Gale with mild Weather. two Men sawing boards. the others carrying in Firewood. the Indian went away early this Morning as also did William Walker."

Feb. 21
" Friday Wind and weather as yesterday. two Men sawing Boards and the rest with three Dogs to bring Moose flesh from an Indian hunter."

Feb. 22
" Saturday Wind variable in the West quarter weather clear and thawed much. the two Men Employed about trifling Duty within doors. at Noon the Men returned brought 230 lb of moose flesh and news of more being killed yesterday."

Feb. 23
" Sunday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with Cloudy warm Weather. sent three Men with dogs to fetch Flesh."

Feb. 24
" Monday Wind NNW a strong Gale with Drifting Weather. the two Men at the House cutting a little Firewood. At Noon those sent for Meat Yesterday Returned brought near 200 lb moose Flesh."

Feb. 25
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a small Breeze with fine clear weather. the Men Employed about various Duty. in the Morning two Indian lads arrived from our Hunters to tell us to fetch Meat. two Cats from the Traps to Day."

Feb. 26
" Wednesday Wind NE a small Breeze with clear mild Weather. two Men sawing stuff for a prefs to pack the Furs. the Rest cut Firewood. In the Evening Mr William Lockey and Mr Longmoore accompanied by two Indians arrived brought a few Furs and some provisions. they Inform me that they have been mostly Starving since they went away from here untill a few Days agoe that they got to the woody Hill where they killed some moose and Red Deer which has enabled them to come to the House. they also inform me that the Indians they have seen has got no Furs, there being no Bufflaloe to be seen the way they have been a pitching which has rendered them uncapable of trapping Wolves."

Feb. 27
" Thursday Wind Southerly weather as yesterday. sent two Men with Dogs to bring moose flesh, the Rest Employed about Necefsary Duty. at noon two fall Indians came for Tobacco which they got and went away again."

Feb. 28
" Friday Wind SE a fresh Breeze with clear Weather but not so warm as yesterday. two Men making a prefs. the other Employed about odd Jobbs within Doors. the Indians that arrived with Mr Longmoore traded their provisions and went away. and at Noon the Fall Indians Arrived. six Men and four Women."

Mar. 1 1783
" Saturday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze weather cloudy most part of the Day. the people Employed as yesterday traded with the fall Indians and gave them all the Encouragement I pofsibly could. these have never Traded here before. at Noon one tent of Sufsuwich, or the Pelican Indians arrived, these talk a different Language from either fall or black foot Indians. these have never been here before and for their better Encouragement I have rigged one of them as he seems to be a good Indian."

Mar. 2
" Sunday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with a thick fog 'till Noon afterwards clear fine Weather. traded with those that came yesterday and made them small presents as usual. they have brought 108 Wolves and 80 lb provisions. towards Evening two Afsineepoiet Indians arrived brought a little provisions and a few Wolves. late in the Evening the Men returned that went away on Thursday as also the Women from the Tents, they have brought 300 lb moose flesh."

Mar. 3
" Monday Wind variable with fine Weather and thaw'd much. at Noon the Men Employed about various Duty traded with the Indians that came yesterday and they went away. as also did those here before; this Morning one of the Canadians had the impudence to sieze a horse belonging to one of the Sufsu that Traded here yesterday. the Indian told him to Disist and at the same time cut the Sleeve of his Coat. he then went Back and told his Master and the rest of them which came all down in a Body on our Plantation with their Open knives in their Hands and Certainly would have done Mischief had not Mr Longmoore & myself gone out to prevent it. One of these had sent me a very abusive Letter some time agoe. I took him by the hand and demanded Satisfaction for the same. his Answer was he had Given all that ever he intended to give. I told him if that was the case he must fight and if he Beat me I would forgive him he told me I was no Judge. for Answer I hit him on the side of the Head. but did not hurt him much, but the next one fetched Blood and he said he would have no more. at which they all went Back with more Speed then they came."

Mar. 4
" Tuesday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. sent John Irvin and James Gray down the River with provi- to meet those that are coming Up. two Men sawing crofs pieces for the prefs. the other man doing odd Jobbs within Doors."

Mar. 5
" Wednesday Wind variable from South to NW light Breezes with very warm Weather. a great deal of Water on the River. William Folster fitting crofs pieces to the prefs. the Taylor making cloathing for Trade. the other cut a little Firewood. one Quiquahatch from the traps to Day."

Mar. 6
" Thursday Wind NNW a fresh Breeze weather clear with cold Air thawed a little under the Lee. the Taylor employed as yesterday. the other two about various Jobbs. one Quiquahatch from the traps to Day."

Mar. 7
" Friday Wind Northerly a small Breeze with Cloudy thawing weather. William Folster making a window shutter for the Trading room Window. one Man cut a little Firewood and the Taylor employed as before. at ten OClock the packet Men Arrived accompanied by James Banks, John Sebaston and Magnus Sclater with the Trading goods as pr Letter all safe and in good Condition. they have been Obliged to walk most part of the Night they being much snow blinded."

" Copy of a Letter received from George Hudson
Cumberland House February 24th 1783
Dear Sir,
Your favor of the 9th Instant came safe to hand on the 21st which gave me great pleasure to hear of You and all under your Command being in perfect Health which Happinefs thank God we Enjoy here; as likewise of your Succefs both in Furs and provisions. I wish Sir I could say the like but Alas' where is it to come from as the few Indians I trusted Debt last fall are now up your way. I send you Sir Inclosed the Account of their Debts in case they should come into the house. On February 3d four Indians Arrived, two Men, a lad and a Woman. part of those you left here when? you went away. they are the only Indians I have seen since I wrote to you last. they have brought me about 98? made Beaver in Coats & parchment Beaver and Just two Days half Dry'd Meat. they told me they had their Debts at their tents but came only for a supply. I Expect them in every Day as they promised me to Hunt and come in with Meat as fast as pofsible. I spoke to Mau.thappew to Build a Canoe as also the Measureman, which they have promised to do. I sent word to the Old Man by his Son to look out for Birch Rind and Build me a Canoe. as yet I cannot tell whether he will or not. I Expect to have three new Canoes if not Four.

By those you sent down and three more Englishmen Viz. James Banks, Magnus Sclater and John Sebaston I have sent 412 made Beaver in Trading goods Contents as pr Inclosed Acct. Being more than you sent for. your Letter Sir Informed me that you feel the want of Goods, and by the Addition of three more Men I thought a larger Quantity might be taken as I am certainly sure it is the only place where furs and provisions is to be got.

Provisions here is but very scarce. the Men are now at short Allowance. the same as last Year after serving out the Bearers there Remains about 550 lb Dried Meat 1600 lb Beat meat, 300 lb fat. the Fish has fallen off since the beginning of January but the great Stock we had? before hand, has prevented me from sending them down to U Basquiau as pr Order. I shall send them now shortly for pitch and Wooden work for Canoes. Magnus Twatt I Expect to Build a Canoe. I have spoke to him and he thinks himself capable of so doing which I make no doubt of as Indeed he is an Ingenious Man. I have taken every precaution in my power to keep the Misfortune that has happened from the Natives no Soul Sir shall be acquainted by me. those you sent down are as well acquainted as yourself and those here I believe knew it before myself. The Leaf Tobacco is all gone. it was but 20 lb left here, 8 lb of which I had myself. Mr Lockey and the Men had the Remainder. I have about 130 made Beaver being all I Traded since you went away & about 120 more out in Debts which I am pretty sure of getting in. the rest is amongst those that Keshikaa.amashish Informed you of which I hope you will get.

I am Sorry to hear that Mr Walker should have paid so little Attention to the Company's Interest as to absent himself from the House. I never did and hope never shall think so lightly of the Company's Interest and your favor Sir as to take such a Step. I am surprised to think of 10 1/2 packs and 1 1/2 pack. the wide Difference makes me conscious the company's Interest has not been properly regarded.

Tommy whites? Son is not as yet Arrived. if he should come I shall Inform him of your desire. I was intending to keep him to hunt for me as I have not tasted a mouthful of Green Meat since the Fall set in and partridges being very few. Rabbets none at all. Having nothing more to say at present, shall Conclude with wishing a happy Reinstatement to their Honors Affairs. Health and Happinefs to you and all under your Command and am
Dear Sir
Your most Obedient &
very Humble Servant
George Hudson
PS.
I wish you Sir A great Increase of Trade and provisions."

Mar. 8
" Saturday Wind North a strong gale with cold freezing weather. the Men that Arrived Yesterday resting themselves after their Journey. the others cut a little Firewood towards Evening Charles Isham and an Indian Man arrived with a trifle of Furs to Trade."

Mar. 9
" Sunday Wind WNW a fresh Breeze with clear sharp Weather traded with the Indian that came yesterday and gave him some Tobacco and Ammunition for a Stayed Indian that he is tenting with."

Mar. 10
" Monday Wind and Weather as yesterday. the Afsinepoiet Indian went away as also did Charles Isham. sent William Folster William Coupland and Nicholas Wishart of to gather pitch. one Man looking at the traps. brought one Quiquahatch. I did not Order the Rest to Duty as some of them are lame and some snow Blind. late in the Evening three Afsineepoiet Indians came for Tobacco."

Mar. 11
" Tuesday Wind Easterly a small Breeze with clear sharp air. the Men Employed getting Hatchet Helves and doing trifling Duty about the House. the Afsinneepoiet Indians went away. they say that they will be here tomorrow. at noon six Men and four Women arrived from the Southward with a few Furs to Trade. some of these was here in the Winter. indeed they are Starving for want of provisions there being no Buffaloe and they being but ill acquainted with Hunting in the Woods."

Mar. 12
" Wednesday Wind Southerly a Stiff Breeze with clear weather. one Man repairing a Gun. the Rest Employed about various Duty. traded with the Indians that came yesterday and gave them small presents as usual. late in the Evening the Afsinneepoiet Indians mentioned yesterday arrived with provisions to Trade. part of these was here in the begining of January but the Rest are Strangers."

Mar. 13
" Thursday Wind variable light Breezes weather clear and thawed much. six Men digging a place to fix the prefs in, the Rest attending the House. traded with the Afsinneepoiet Indians and made them presents as usual. they have brought 180 lb of half dried Buffaloe flesh, 200 lb Beat Meat, 400 lb fat, 30 green and 60 Dried tongues. also 60 Wolves indeed these are our only stand by for provisions."

Mar. 14
" Friday Wind Easterly a small Breeze Weather cloudy with Snow towards Noon. three Men with myself Stowing away the provisions. the rest cut Firewood and cleaned the Yard and Plantation. the Indians went away Early this Morning."

Mar. 15
" Saturday Little Wind Northerly with clear sharp Air. four Men with Dogs hauling home Dry firewood. the Rest Employed about various duty in the Evening two Afsinneepoiet Indians came for Tobacco."

Mar. 16
" Sunday Wind variable light Breezes weather part Cloudy part clear. in the Evening two Tents of the Afsinneepoiet Indians arrived with provisions to Trade. these was here in the begining of January. the pitch hunters returned and have brought Enough for three Canoes. one weejack from the traps."

Mar. 17
" Monday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with clear fine weather. six Men cut Firewood. the Rest Employed about odd Jobbs within Doors. Traded with the Indians that came yesterday and made the Leader a present as usual. altho' the poorest I ever saw both for furs and provisions having brought no more than 26 Wolves 225 lb half dried Buffaloe meat, 100 lb of Fat, and 90 lb of Beat Meat. they went away at noon. one Cat from the traps to Day."

Mar. 18
" Tuesday Wind variable Weather as yesterday. two Men making Wedges for the prefs, the Rest fell a few timber pieces for planks. At noon one Afsinneepoiet man and two Women arrived with a few Furs which they Traded and went away immediately. Mr Longmoore Mr Lockey Malchom Rofs James Spence and James Gaddy also came home for good. the Indian that was hunting for them not being willing to stay any longer. sent three Men back to Charles Isham to gather pitch and to Afsist an Indian there to Split wood work for Canoes he having promised to build two."

Mar. 19
" Wednesday Wind Northerly a small Breeze weather clear and thaw'd much. two Men sawing plank, the Rest fell and carried in stuff for small Stockadoes. in the Evening one tent of Indians arrived brought little or nothing. Altho' this is the first they have been in since my Arrival last Autumn."

Mar. 20
" Thursday Little Wind variable weather as yesterday. six men falling stuff for small Stockadoes. two Men sawing plank. the rest Employed about various Duty. In the Evening William Omen and Mitchell Omen came home from the Barren Ground."

Mar. 21
" Friday Wind NW a Strong gale weather cloudy with showers of hail towards Evening. two Men sawing plank. sent Mr Longmoore and two Men to Split wood work for Canoes. but returned without finding any fit for that purpose. the rest Employed carrying in Stockadoes. the Indians that arrived on the 19th Instant went away and two more came from the Southward for Tobacco."

Mar. 22
" Saturday Little Wind from the SE Quarter with clear Warm Weather. sent Mr Longmoore and three more Men to the thick woody hill to get woodwork for Canoes. two Men sawing plank, the rest fell Firewood. the two Indians that came yesterday went away Early this Morning. At Noon two swampy ground stone Indians arrived brought 30 made Beaver which they Traded and went away again. in the Evening Isaac Batt William Walker George Rofs and James Batt also arrived from the Barren Ground accompanied by an Indian who brought 30 made Beaver in Furs which he Traded Ready for going away tomorrow."

Mar. 23
" Sunday Wind South a stiff gale Weather part Cloudy part clear. at noon James Spence Junior came home from the Barren Ground. he parted from Isaac Batt four Days agoe. he Informs me as also Isaac Batt that they fell in with some of the Sufsu Indians, who forced some of their necefsaries from them which has induced them to return sooner then they would have done. the Indian that came yesterday went away. I sent by him some Tobacco and Ammunition for his tent mates."

Mar. 24
" Monday Wind SW a small Breeze with clear warm weather. one man shaving Stockadoes the Rest fell Firewood fixed the prefs in the Ground. at noon one Indian Man and his Wife arrived with a few furs to Trade."

Mar. 25
" Tuesday Wind ENE a fresh Breeze with Cloudy Weather. sent Isaac Batt James Spence and James Batt with an Indian man to hunt about a Days Journey from here the rest Employed felling Firewood and shaving Stockadoes traded with the Indian that came yesterday and he went away the Furs that he brought has been laid up last year."

Mar. 26
" Wednesday Wind as yesterday Weather cloudy with snow all Day. the people Employed about trifling Duty within doors. In the Evening two Indian lads arrived from our Indian hunter, they Inform me that he has killed two Red Deer, which I shall send Men for tomorrow."

Mar. 27
" Thursday Wind NW a Stiff Gale with cold raw cloudy weather. sent five Men with Dogs and two Horses to bring Red Deers flesh the rest Employed about Various Duty. at Noon two tents of Indians arrived from acrofs the South Branch of Saskachewan River. In the Evening the Men returned with the most part of two Red Deer."

Mar. 28
" Friday Wind Northerly a fresh Breeze weather cloudy with Snow most part of the Day. no working without Doors. traded with the Indians that came yesterday and made them presents as usual. they have brought 150 Wolves, four Beaver and 10 Foxes. at Noon two Families of Indians arrived from the Northward. brought little or nothing."

Mar. 29
" Saturday Wind NW a moderate Breeze with thick cloudy Weather. the Taylor and Malchom Rofs making cloathing for Trade. the rest Employed about various Jobbs. the Indians that came on the 27th Instant went away except one Man who stays here to build Canoes according to promise last Autumn."

Mar. 30
" Sunday Wind SW a small Breeze with clear weather and thawed much towards noon. in the Evening one tent of Indians Arrived from the Southward but have brought neither furs nor provisions that are worth mentioning."

Mar. 31
" Monday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. one Man shaving Stockadoes. the Rest fell Firewood. traded with the Indians that Arrived on the 28th & 30th Instant and part of them went away. eight able Men has brought no more than fifty made Beaver; at Noon James Batt came home with one horse load of Red Deers flesh and returned again to his Tent."

Apr. 1 1783
" Tuesday Wind Variable in the South quarter with clear fine Weather. eight Men falling Firewood. the rest Employed about various Jobbs. one tent of Indians pitched away to the Northward a Beaver Hunting."

Apr. 2
" Wednesday Wind ENE a stiff Gale with cold raw Cloudy Weather. William Folster and John Irvin laying the trading Room floor. the rest fell Firewood. Isaac Batt and James Spence came home with two horse loads of red Deers flesh and returned again to their Tent in the Evening. two swans seen to day."

Apr. 3
" Thursday Wind as yesterday weather Cloudy with Snow all Day. the Men Employed about trifling duty within Doors."

Apr. 4
" Friday Little Wind Easterly with thick cloudy Weather. the Men Employed cutting Firewood and clearing the snow of the House and Victualling Shed."

Apr. 5
" Saturday Wind Southerly a Small Breeze weather part Cloudy part clear. two Men Afsisting the Indian to split wood work for Canoes. the Rest Employed about various Duty. James Batt and James Spence came home with two horse loads of Red Deers flesh and returned again to their tent."

Apr. 6
" Sunday Wind ESE a fresh Gale with cold raw weather several Swans and Geese seen to Day."

Apr. 7
" Monday Wind SSW a fresh Breeze with clear warm weather. four Men making up Beat meat and Fat for our Journey down. the Rest fell Firewood.. in the Evening three tents of the Afsineepoiet Indians arrived with Furs to trade. these have not been in since last Summer. these sent for Tobacco in the begining of February but the scarcity of provisions has prevented their coming in sooner. a rise of Water in the River."

Apr. 8
" Tuesday Wind ENE a fresh Breeze first part clear latter part Cloudy with Rain and Sleet. two Men pointing small Stockadoes for Closing in ground for the Garden. one man lame of a sore hand the rest employed falling Firewood for the Next Winters Use."

Apr. 9
" Wednesday Wind NE a fresh Gale weather for the most part clear much snow fell in the Night. the Men Employed carrying snow out of the Yard and cutting Firewood."

Apr. 10
" Thursday Wimd WSW a fresh Breeze with clear fine Weather. sent two Men with the Indian to afsist in splitting wood work for Canoes. three Men Employed within Doors the Rest fell Firewood. traded with the Afsinnepoiets and at noon they went away. Indeed they are very poorly gooded having had no more from them then 230 made Beaver. poor Creatures they have been starving all the Winter for want of provisions which has rendered them Uncapable to procure Furs."

Apr. 11
" Friday Wind SSW a fresh gale with clear weather three Men making up Beat Meat and Fat for our Journey down. two Men with the Indian splitting wood work for Canoes. the Rest fell Firewood. in the Morning Magnus Annell and Andrew Corrigal came home with pitch."

Apr. 12
" Saturday Wind SE a stiff Breeze with clear warm Weather. two Men still Employed splitting wood work for Canoes. eight Men falling Firewood. the Rest doing odd Jobbs about the House."

Apr. 13
" Sunday Calm fine clear Weather till Noon Afterwards blowed a fresh Breeze from the SW. at one in the Afternoon the River broke up and drove down a little way then stopt."

Apr. 14
" Monday Wind variable from South to NW a Strong Gale Weather part Cloudy part clear. the Men Employed Making paddles and doing other necefsary Duty. in the Evening one Indian Man & his Family arrived with a few Furs to Trade. in the Afternoon the River got Under way again and the Water fell much."

Apr. 15
" Tuesday Wind Northerly a Strong Gale weather Cloudy with a little Snow towards Evening. the Men Employed falling Firewood. Rec'd 2 Ducks from an Indian Lad."

Apr. 16
" Wednesday Wind variable light Breezes with clear Weather 'till the Evening afterwards snowed a little. eight Men fell Firewood. the rest Employed about various Duty. At Noon Mr Longmoore and those with him came home from the woody Hill with wood Work for two Canoes. Charles Isham, Will. Flatt, and one Indian Man also came home with Birch Rind and wood work for two Canoes. the Water has fallen greatly in the River."

Apr. 17
" Thursday Wind SW a small Breeze weather part cloudy part clear. the Men employed about various Duty. in the Evening two Indians Arrived with a few furs to Trade. also two swampy Ground Stone Indians came for Tobacco. two Ducks to Day from an Indian lad. James Spence Senior very much out of Order and has been for some time by a severe touch of the Flux and at present full of pains all Over the Body."

Apr. 18
" Friday Little Wind Southerly with Warm Cloudy Weather. the Indians that came for Tobacco yesterday went away early this Morning and in the Evening they arrived. three tents came here and two went to the Canadians. they are all but poorly gooded."

Apr. 19
" Saturday Wind ESE a strong gale with Cloudy weather. George Rofs lame by a Fall from a Horse two days agoe. Mitchell Omen still lame of his hand. the Rest Employed about trifling Jobbs about the House. Traded with the Swampy ground Indians and made them small presents as usual. in the Evening they went away. they have brought 200 Coat & parchment Beav. Isaac Batt, James Spence, and James Batt came home as also did the Indian that was with them. he being sent for by some of his Relatives that came here yesterday."

Apr. 20
" Sunday Wind ENE a fresh Breeze weather Cloudy with Rain and Sleet most part of the Day. traded with the Southward Indians that arrived on the 17th and part of those that came on the 18th and made the Leader a present as Usual."

Apr. 21
" Monday Wind NE a Stiff Breeze with cold raw cloudy Weather. sent Isaac Batt away with an Indian Hunter to bring in meat when he kills a Beast. the Rest Employed gathering the Firewood into Heaps. the sick and lame as before."

Apr. 22
" Tuesday Wind as yesterday with snow and sleet most part of the Day. much snow fell in the Night. no working without Doors. at Noon the Indians pitched away off the plantation except two Men that stays to build Canoes."

Apr. 23
" Wednesday Wind variable with snow and sleet most part of the Day. sent four Men with three horses to bring Red Deers flesh. and in the Evening they returned with 240 lb. late in the Evening two Canadian Canoes arrived from the lower House to carry all Down, by these I am informed that the five tents of Indians that Will Walker tented with in the Winter are all Arrived there by Will Walkers neglect of Duty and disobeying of my Orders. your Honors have lost above 400 good Beaver. Indeed I am sorry to say he has never Obeyed my Orders for which for the future he and me will Winter together again."

Apr. 24
" Thursday Wind NNW a fresh Gale with cold raw cloudy weather.. two Men sick and two Men lame. sent Charles Isham and Malchom Rofs in search of a Deer that was wounded yesterday with which they returned at noon. the Rest Employed gathering Firewood. the Canadians all Embarked for the lower House in two Canoes and one Batteauz. I am informed by one of their Men that they have Traded 34 packs of Furs here & 57 at the lower House besides 17 Traded at both places last Summer and a larger Quantity of provisions which has enabled them to procure a Stock for those to the Northward to carry them down to the great carrying place."

Apr. 25
" Friday Wind WNW a fresh Breeze weather as yesterday. Mr Longmoore making a Ground frame for Building Canoes the sick and lame much the same as before. the Rest Employed collecting Firewood. in the Evening five Indian Men and five Women arrived from the Canadians House below with a few furs to Trade. Articles that they could not be supplied with there."

Apr. 26
" Saturday Wind ESE a small Breeze with clear fine Weather. twelve Men carrying Firewood. the Rest Employed about various Duty traded with the Indians that came yesterday and made them small presents as usual."

Apr. 27
" Sunday Wind SE a fresh Gale Weather part cloudy part clear and much Warmer than it has been for sometime past. put the Indians acrofs the River and they went away except one Man and his wife that has promised to goe down to York Fort."

Apr. 28
" Monday Wind Northerly a small Breeze first part cloudy latter part clear fine Weather. the Men Employed about various duty. Packed twelve Bundles of Furs to Day. James Spence still ailing George Rofs and Mitchell Omen something Better. at Noon received three Red Deer from our Indian Hunter."

Apr. 29
" Tuesday Wind variable in the south quarter fresh Gales with cloudy Weather. sent four Men to dig roots for sewing Canoes. one Man diging part of the Garden ground. three Men putting up the Garden Stockadoes the Rest Employed at the prefs. packed 26 Bundles of Furs. in the Evening received one Horse load of Red Deers flesh."

Apr. 30
" Wednesday Wind NE a fresh Breeze with clear weather. the Men Employed as yesterday. Packed 32 bundles of Furs."

May 1 1783
" Thursday Wind Easterly a small Breeze with a thick fog till noon, afterwards clear fine Weather. the people Employed as before. packed 30 Bundles of Furs. Isaac Batt and the Hunter came home brought five horse loads of moose and Red Deer's flesh. last night three black foot Indians arrived for Tobacco. sowed part of the Garden to Day."

May 2
" Friday Wind NE a fresh Gale weather Cloudy with rain in the forenoon. Thundered very hard in the Night attended with heavy Rain. the people Employed about various Duty. packed 11 Bundles of Furs. James Spence still continues very bad. George Rofs and Mitchell Omen not fit for Duty.Isaac Batt returned back to his tent, as also did the Indian. I have sent Andrew Corrigal along with him to Afsist in Bringing in Flesh."

May 3
" Saturday Wind ENE a small Breeze thick Weather with small Rain till Noon afterwards clear. the Men Employed getting Roots and repairing the Big Canoe. the Indians that came on the 20th of last Month went away as I did not chuse to trust them with Tobacco for fear they should deceive me. I have sent two Men along with them one of which is a Canadian and can talk good English as also the Black Foot and Afsinnepoiet Languages has Induced me to Engage this Man in your Honors Service for the term of two Years at 20 £ pr Annum. I hope your Honors will not think me Culpable for so doing as it is done out of good Intent. should this not be agreeable to the Honorable Board Your Honors will be pleased to Observe as it has never been my Motive to make free with your Honors Money or the Goods I am intrusted with then necefsary for the public Interest. I have agreed to pay the said John plum out of my Wages."

May 4
" Sunday Wind variable between NE and SE fresh Breezes weather part Cloudy part clear. finished repairing the Big Canoe ready for bringing the Indians acrofs. at Noon John plum and the other Man returned, he Informs me that when he came to the Indians they had gone a few Miles through the track that leads to the lower French House having been informed by some of the Afsinnepoiet Indians that our Goods was done. in the Evening they arrived and the Men brought them acrofs part of which are blood and part black foot Indians. some of which never has been into any Settlement before. there is 22 able Men but are but poorly gooded having only got over the small pox this Winter."

May 5
" Monday Wind Easterly a small Breeze first part Cloudy latter part clear fine Weather. traded with the Indians and made them small presents as usual. these have brought 144 Wolves 10 parchment Beaver and 400 lb of provisions. the men employed crofsing the Indians repairing a Canoe and packed eleven Bundles of Furs."

May 6
" Tuesday Wind Southerly a fresh Breeze weather as yesterday. the Men Employed repairing Canoes, diging the Garden and Afsisting the Indians that are building Canoes. great numbers of Laughing Geese flying to the Northward."

May 7
" Wednesday Wind SSW a Strong Gale with Cloudy weather the Men Employed as yesterday. took one Canoe of the Stocks and put another on."

May 8
" Thursday Wind variable from SW to North a fresh breeze with cloudy weather. the Men Employed about various Duty. the coldnefs of the weather makes our Canoe building goe on but slowly having got but two sewed as yet. packed three Bundles of Furs to day which makes the Trade about 5000 made Beaver."

May 9
" Friday Wind Northerly a small Breeze weather cloudy with rain 'till noon afterwards clear. three Men at work in the garden four Men repairing old Canoes. the rest afsisting Mr Longmoore in Building a Canoe. James Spence no better then he was. Mitchel Omen and George Rofs much Better, but not fit for Duty. Isaac Batt and Andrew Corrigal came home for good not having had any succefs in Hunting since they went from here last."

May 10
" Saturday Wind NW fresh Gales with clear weather. five Men diging ground to sow Barley in. four men repairing old Canoes. the rest afsisting the Canoes Builders. took away the Stocks to day and put another on."

May 11
" Sunday Little Wind variable in the North quarter cloudy weather with small rain all Day."

May 12
" Monday Wind ENE a fresh gale cloudy with small Rain at times. five men diging ground for sowing Barley in and fencing the same. the rest Employed repairing and pitching the old Canoes. the cold Weather detains us very much in regard to Canoe Building."

May 13
" Tuesday Wind variable between East and North fresh gales with clear weather. three Men getting Roots for sewing Canoes. six Men repairing Canoes. Mr Longmoore took one off the Stocks and the Indian put another on. the rest of the Men employed about various Duty. Mitchell Omen upon Duty. George Rofs still lame James Spence continues much the same, he has some ease in the Day but gets no Rest in the night and has no appetite for food."

May 14
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as yesterday eleven Men getting Ready for going down to Cumberland House. Mr Longmoore timbering a Canoe. the Rest Employed about necefsary Jobbs. finished repairing the Old Canoes Except pitching. also took the sixth Canoe off the Stocks four of which has been built by two Indians and the other two by Mr Longmoore."

May 15
" Thursday Wind Easterly fresh Breezes with clear weather. the Men Employed watering and pitching Canoes. Mr Longmoore and myself took a Survey of Stores and Trading Goods, as I intend to leave him in Charge. not finding William Walker capable especially as times are at present. indeed I should be very sorry to trust any person that did not act to the Utmost endeavour for your Honors Interest."

May 16
" Friday Wind ESE a stiff Gale with clear Weather. at eight OClock I Embarked for Cumberland House with Eleven men more in six Canoes, loaded with 54 Bundles of Furs and 500 lb of provisions. have left Mr Longmoore in Charge and appointed the following Persons to stay up all summer Viz. George Rofs, James Omen, James Merwick, John Plum, and James Spence Sen. he being sick and unfit for going down, according to his own Desire. I have left him up."

May 17
" Saturday Wind and Weather as yesterday. at four OClock we proceeded and paddled 'till two in the Afternoon, then put up having killed a doe moose in crofsing the River as also the young one."

May 18
" Sunday Wind variable fresh Breezes with clear weather a Strong frost last night. at half past four we embarked and continued paddling 'till eight in the Evening then put up. large Quantities of Ice laying upon the Shores which I make no Doubt will cause some Difficulty in getting up Goods."

May 19
" Monday Wind Southerly light Breezes with clear fine Weather. at half past four we proceeded as before and paddled till seven in the Evening then put up some of our Canoes being Leaky."

May 20
" Tuesday Wind SE a Stiff Gale with haizy Weather. at half past four we proceeded and at three in the Afternoon we arrived safe at Cumberland House where thank God we found all well."

" Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Peter Pangman
Hudsons House March 15th 1783
Sir,
I received your Letter Dated the 7th Instant but do not find myself under the Necefsity for the Future to receive such another that contains so much falshood; and I hope for the time to come you will take care not to accuse me with any more of your Falshoods; as I am determined not to bear it, neither will I be accountable for what any ill designed person may inform you. Sir I would have you to know that you are not to threaten us with a French War. as also to take care of your Men for, should they come to commit Hostilities they may depend upon it they will not find us Indians to be killed and Beat by them; as to what I did to John he Justly deserved it had it been more which his own hand Writing will testify; I cannot see what Businefs of your Men had to come down in a Body to insult the Natives on this plantation as I am perswaded that was their intention. John having a long Knife in his hand you may depend upon it if ever they insult the Indians on this plantation, they insult me. I afsure you Sir I am not here by myself there is men here that see's all my transactions for I do nothing secretly and shall answer for whatever I do before the Laws of England where I shall not be ashamed to meet any Trader that comes from Canada. Sir I do not Dispute your being his Majesty's Subjects but to tell you the truth, had he no better he might soon deliver up his Kingdom, for liars never make good subjects to any but the Devil. I conclude wishing not to be accused any more with Falshoods and Remain
Sir
Your Humble Servant
William Tomison
PS
Ths is a public Letter; a Copy of which I shall send o England as I am certain that every thing that has been censured against me has no Foundation."

" From Cumberland House to York Fort"

June 22 1783
" Sunday Wind Southerly light Breezes with clear hot Weather. At Seven in the Morning Embarked for York Fort with 38 bundles of Furs in five Canoes. three English and two Indians. we paddled 'till six in the Evening then put up about 12 Miles below the wire."

June 23
" Monday Wind SE weather as yesterday till Noon afterwards Cloudy with Rain towards Evening. at 3 OClock we proceeded and at six in the Evening put up about 20 Miles below U Basquiau."

June 24
" Tuesday Wind variable from SE to NW Weather Cloudy with Rain in the Evening. At five OClock we proceeded and at four in the Afternoon put up upon an Island in the Muddy Lake. at five in the Evening three Canadian Canoes went past on their Journey down man'd with 23 Men."

June 25
" Wednesday Wind Northerly a fresh Gale with Cloudy weather 'till Noon afterwards variable and almost calm. at seven OClock blowed fresh from the NE. at Noon we proceeded and at half past eight in the Evening put up on the long point about half way through the Cedar Lake."

June 26
" Thursday Wind NE a fresh Gale weather Cloudy with Thunder and Rain most part of the Day. Could not proceed."

June 27
" Friday Wind SW a fresh Gale with clear weather 'till Noon afterwards variable and almost calm. at One OClock we Embarked and at eight in the Evening put up at the End of the Cedar Lake. here we found the Rest of our people all well."

June 28
" Saturday Wind variable fresh Gales with clear weather. at four OClock we proceeded to the great fall and carried acrofs the short carrying place then put up the Wind blowing fresh prevents us from going down. in the Evening a Canadian Canoe went past from the Northward had little or nothing in Except provisions that they took in at the wire?"

June 29
" Sunday Wind Westerly a Small Breeze weather part Cloudy part Clear. at six oClock we proceeded down the fall with part of the Canoes and by One oClock got all safe down thank God. afterwards set the Nets caught a few pike."

June 30
" Monday Wind Northerly first part cloudy with Rain latter part blowed fresh with Sun shine Alternately. Magnus Twatt and James Saunderson Repairing a Leaky Canoe but could not finish for the Coolnefs of the Weather. the Rest attending the Nets in their turns. Caught upwards of 40 pike. in the Evening one Canadian Canoe came here on their Journey down from the Northward. had in 16 packs of Furs which they Traded with a good many more from Metowappew?, the Northward Indian Leader & his gang."

July 1 1783
" Tuesday Wind variable fresh Breezes weather for the Most part Cloudy finished Repairing the Canoe & took up the Nets to Day. in the Evening five Canadian Canoes pafsed by from the Northward with 15 packs in Each. the Chief part of which has been Traded from the Indians that used to Trade at prince Wale's Fort. gave the Indians Ammunition and sent them ahead to Hunt."

July 2
" Wednesday Little Wind variable with Rain 'till ten OClock Afterwards blowed fresh Easterly. we proceeded a little way thro' the great Lake but the Wind freshening with a great Swell Obliged us to put on shore."

July 3
" Thursday Wind variable fresh Breezes with haizy Weather at half past three we proceeded and paddled 'till Noon the wind freshening up from the SW with a great Swell obliged us to put ashore where we Stoped 'till half past six in the Evening then put off again. received from those that went a Hunting on the First Inst. two Swans & one half Beav."

July 4
" Friday Wind Southerly Weather as yesterday. we paddled from six in the Evening 'till ten this Morning then obliged to put ashore as the Wind was blowing fresh from the SW. three Canoes of Indians behind."

July 5
" Saturday Wind NW a fresh Gale till noon afterwards variable. at three in the Afternoon we proceeded and at nine OClock got out of the great Lake where we put up on a Small Island. the Indians came up to us all well."

July 6
" Sunday Wind Northerly a Strong Gale with Rain could not proceed."

July 7
" Monday Wind variable between NW and SW a stiff Breeze with haizy Weather. at five OClock we proceeded and at Eight put up at Bushsengan? Lake. two Families of Indians Tenting here. these are them I Traded the provisions from on our Journey up last Year. they inform me that they have neither seen European nor Indian since they saw us. being frightened to go near any place as they have not had the Small pox."

July 8
" Tuesday Little Wind variable warm Weather with Thunder till the Evening afterwards a heavy Rain. layed by to Fish. caught upwards of 40 pike. the Indians being Destitute for want of Ammunition. I gave them a Supply for their Families and to procure a little provisions for us on our Return also Traded 40 made Beaver with them for Cloth, Knives, &c."

July 9
" Wednesday Wind Northerly a Strong Gale with haizy Weather could not proceed. caught 25 pike & towards Evening took up the Nets to Dry."

July 10
" Thursday Wind NW Weather as yesterday 'till the Evening afterwards a little Moderate. sent eight Men to bring the flesh of a Moose that was killed yesterday by the Indians we found here. at three oClock they Returned with 233 lb of Flesh without Bone. James Saunderson Repairing the Nets."

July 11
" Friday Wind Northerly a small Breeze with thick haizy weather till Noon afterwards Rain. At half past three we proceeded and at Noon obliged to put up for the Rain. two Canoes also Embarked with what Furs was amongst them to go down to Trade."

July 12
" Saturday Wind NW a fresh Breeze with Cloudy weather. at half past three we proceeded and at six in the Evening put up at the Branch in Eachawemames? River. Rec'd two Swans from the Indians."

July 13
" Sunday Wind WSW a Moderate Breze Weather as yesterday at half past three we Embarked and at Seven in the Evening finished Carrying over the White Fall then put up. four Indian Canoes behind a Hunting."

July 14
" Monday Wind as yesterday a fresh Gale with clear Weather the Men with Myself made a bridge over a Swamp as it was bad Carrying. at Eleven we proceeded and at four in the Evening finished Carrying over the Hill Carrying place where we put up. set one net but had little Succefs. five Canoes of Indians behind."

July 15
" Tuesday Wind variable thick Weather with Rain most part of the Day. the Men with Myself Repairing the Road on the Carrying place as it was very bad."

July 16
" Wednesday Little Wind variable Weather part Cloudy part Clear. at 6 oClock we proceeded and at ten put up to set our nets from which we had tolerable good Succefs."

July 17
" Thursday Wind Northerly a Stiff Breeze Weather as yesterday. laid by to Fish and had very good Succefs."

July 18
" Friday Wind variable light Breezes with clear fine Weather. at nine OClock we Embarked and at four in the Afternoon put up at the Entrance of Pethe paw we nepee Lake to Dry a Bundle of Furs that got wet. we found the Indians here but have had no Succefs in Hunting."

July 19
" Saturday Wind NE a fresh Breeze Weather for the most part clear. at four OClock we proceeded and at half past three in the Afternoon put up. set two Nets but had no Succefs. the Indians behind Hunting."

July 20
" Sunday Wind ENE a Stiff Breeze with Clear Weather laid by to Fish & wait for the Indians. in the Evening four Canoes Came up but have had no better Succefs then before."

July 21
" Monday Wind and Weather as yesterday. three Canoes of Indians went a head to Hunt and two went a Hunting from here and returned in the Evening without Succefs. they Inform me that they found a Dead Bear yesterday and a Dead Moose to Day, which they look upon as a Bad Omen. took Up the Nets & repaired them ready for setting again, as we have had but little Succefs here."

July 22
" Tuesday Wind Northerly a Stiff Gale with Cloudy weather could not proceed."

July 23
" Wednesday Little wind Northerly weather as yesterday. at Eight OClock we proceeded and at Seven in the Evening put up a little way through Maskechequan Lake."

July 24
" Thursday Wind variable between NE and SE fresh Breezes with Clear Weather. at five OClock we proceeded, paddled 'till three in the Afternoon then put ashore, the Wind blowing Fresh at Seven put off again and paddled till ten then put up at the End of Maskechequan Lake. three Canoes of Indians behind."

July 25
" Friday Wind SE a Small Breeze with clear fine weather set the Nets & had tolerable Succefs in the Evening two Canoes came up to us but they did not see the other one. Trad'd part of one Deer from them."

July 26
" Saturday Wind as yesterday and blowed fresh with Clear Weather. laid by to Fish had middling Luck of pike. in the Evening the Canoe came up that was behind but have had no Succefs in Hunting."

July 27
" Sunday Wind WSW a Stiff Gale with clear Weather. at 5 oClock we proceeded and at Noon put up in the Swampy Lake. set three Nets caught a few pike & Suckers."

July 28
" Monday Wind and Weather as yesterday could not proceed as the Wind was blowing very hard & the Road very Dangerous."

July 29
" Tuesday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze weather Cloudy with Rain most part of the Day we proceeded a little Way then Obliged to put up."

July 30
"Wednesday Wind & Weather as yesterday but blowed harder at times could not proceed."

July 31
" Thursday Wind NW Weather part cloudy part clear and Blowed fresh at Times. at five O'Clock we proceeded down the Hill River but towards Noon the Wind Blowing Fresh Obliged us to put Up sooner then we otherwise would have done."

Aug. 1 1783
" Friday Wind variable between West & North squally with Heavy Rain Attended with Thunder & Lightning. at Six Oclock we proceeded & at nine put ashore & laid by till six in the Evening then put off again & carried over five carrying places then put up."

Aug. 2
" Saturday Wind as yesterday Weather for the most part Cloudy and blowed fresh with Rain at Noon we proceeded as yesterday. at five in the Evening got over the most part of the Falls then put up."

Aug. 3
" Sunday Wind Northerly a fresh Gale Weather Cloudy with smart Showers of hail at times. at half past five we proceeded and at Seven in the Evening put up a little Way down Steel River. we saw several Deer, but had not the good fortune to kill any of them."

Aug. 4
" Monday Wind as yesterday with clear fine Weather till the Evening Afterwards Cloudy with Small Rain. at six OClock we Embarked and at Noon put up in hayes River. Rec'd Most part of a Deer from the Indians."

Aug. 5
" Tuesday Wind NW squally Weather with Rain at Intervals. at Noon we proceeded down Hayse River and at Seven in the Evening put up a little below Penny-cuttaway River. Received one Deer from the Indians. we took in the Furs the Indians was Carrying and left them to kill Deer along the River Side as they are beginning to Crofs."

Aug. 6
" Wednesday Wind as yesterday with cold Raw Weather. at seven OClock we proceeded and at Noon arrived at the place where York Fort once Stood, but now a Ruinous heap, which is a Disagreeable sight to behold."

Aug. 7
" Thursday Wind SW a fresh Breeze with clear Weather. sent Mr Lockey to the Marsh to look if there was any Boats in the Evening he Returned but found no Boat."

Aug. 8
" Friday Wind variable light Breezes with clear fine Weather. sent Mr Lockey & five Men over the River in Search of Boats. in the Evening they Returned with a French Jolly Boat and found two More which the Indians had secured. the Rest making Barricades for the Canoes and Repairing one that was damaged. at Noon the Indians came down that was left a Deer hunting but have had little Succefs. the Deer not Crofsing."

Aug. 9
" Saturday Wind SE a fresh Breeze with Cloudy weather. Magnus Twatt & two Men made a Beacon and Step for 5 fathom hole sand. sent Mr Lockey and four Men to the Eastern Shore to look for the Boat he left when he made his Escape Inland. in the Evening they Returned and brought with them the White Cutter. they also found one of the small Boats at the Fourteens River and one of the Wainscot? Canoes. sent five Men up the River to Hunt Deer."

Aug. 10
" Sunday Wind variable light Breezes with very hot Weather."

Aug. 11
" Monday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze with Cloudy Haizy Weather. Magnus Twatt making Oars out of pine sticks as no Oars could be found but one Jolly Boats Oar. sent four Men to ten Shilling Creek to set a Net for Fish in the Evening they Returned caught two Small pike. also brought home a Grindstone from the Hay Island. sent two Indian Men & two lads up the River to look out for Deer. Indeed we are now in a Miserable Condition for want of provisions. William Flat was drying some wet Powder taken out of one of the Cannon he Unfortunately set fire to it, which has hurt him, another Man, and an Indian Woman very much."

Aug. 12
" Tuesday Wind SW a fresh Gale with clear Weather. tried to pack a Cask of Wolves but could put no more into a Hodgshead then 50. in the Evening the Wind Favoured and Mr Lockey and four Men set 3 fathom hole Beacon."

Aug. 13
" Wednesday Wind as yesterday a Strong Gale weather part Cloudy part clear with Thunder and Rain towards Noon sent two Men to Overhaul the Net brought 3 pike and 3 Tickameg. Magnus Twatt & Mr Lockey Repairing the White Cutter."

Aug. 14
" Thursday Wind as Before & blowed very hard with clear Weather. sent three Men to Overhaul the Net brought two Tickameg also set another at the Fishing Creek below. at noon Charles Isham came down with a small Canoe load of Deers Flesh."

Aug. 15
" Friday Wind variable from SW to NW and blowed a Stiff Gale with Rain towards Evening. at two in the Morning Mr Lockey & twelve Men went down to five Fathom hole to set the Beacon which they did & returned with the Flood. at ten OClock two Indian Men & two Women came from the North River but did not bring any thing with them. one of these is a Homeguard and the other an Inland Indian who came down late in the Spring with furs to Trade and did not know that the place was destroyed 'till he Arrived at the Ruins, which gave him a good deal of Concern. the Homeguard Indian informs us that there was a great deal of provisions and other things, put up in a Tent for us of which we see nothing but the Bare tent poles. they also informed us of a large Boat laying at the North River which Mr Lockey & two Men went away for to see and Returned in the Evening.Mr Lockey sayes he thinks it is the Seventy four's Longboat and has been drove in by bad Weather as she is now a long way from the Water side."

Aug. 16
" Saturday Wind Easterly a Moderate Breeze with clear Weather. sent two Men to take up the Nets as there is no Fish to be got. the Rest Employed Airing the Furs. at Noon five of the Home guard Indians came acrofs the River brought 86 lb of Dried Deers Meat."

Aug. 17
" Sunday Wind ENE a Stiff Gale with clear Weather. Mitchell Omen and James Banks returned from Deer Hunting brought three Does & two Fawns. sent Mr Lockey and two Men away to Supply their place. the Indians also went away that came acrofs the River."

Aug. 18
" Monday Wind SE a fresh Breeze Weather part cloudy part Clear. the Men Employed Building a log Tent. William Flatt and John Sebaston unfit for Duty."

Aug. 19
" Tuesday Wind Easterly a Strong Gale with Rain all Day."

Aug. 20
" Wednesday Wind Northerly Weather as yesterday till Noon afterwards Moderate the Men Employed Building theTent. late at Night five Men came down with 26 Deer, nineteen of Which they brought Unskined."

Aug. 21
" Thursday Wind SSE a small Breeze Weather part Cloudy part clear. sent four Men away to Hunt Deer. the Rest Employed salting Venison & building a log Tent. In the Evening five Indians came acrofs the River, brought me about two fathoms of Tobacco and 12 lb Dried Meat."

Aug. 22
" Friday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with Cloudy Weather. six Men carrying Mud to point the Tent. the Rest finished building except the Doors. the Indians that came acrofs yesterday Returned."

Aug. 23
" Saturday Wind variable thick weather with Rain at times the Men Employed making Mud up with Grafs and pointing the tent with it."

Aug. 24
" Sunday Wind Easterly weather much the same as yesterday. in the Evening two Indians came acrofs from the North River but brought nothing with them. they went acrofs to those on the other Side."

Aug. 25
" Monday Wind variable between West & North a Strong Gale with thunder & Rain towards Evening the Men Employed pointing the Tent."

Aug. 26
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a Strong Gale with Cloudy weather finished pointing the Tent in the Afternoon Mitchell Omen and Magnus Annel came down with eight Deer from Shamatawa also Several of the North River Indians came Brought Nothing."

Aug. 27
" Wednesday Wind NW a fresh Gale with Cloudy Haizy weather Mitchell Omen & Magnus Annell returned and have sent Edward Wishart away with them. the Rest Opening up Old Ropes for tracking Lines."

Aug. 28
" Thursday Wind Easterly a Stiff Breeze Weather as yesterday. the Men making tracking lines. several of the Home Indians came acrofs from the other Side brought about 30 lb Beat Meat & Dried. in the Evening those that accompanied us down returned from Deer Hunting brought nothing no Deer Crofsing."

Aug. 29
" Friday Wind Easterly a Strong Gale with thick Weather. the Men Employed making tracking Lines. two Canoes of the Home guard Indians came round the point of Marsh from the North River but did not bring us a mouthful of provisions, nor even so much as a pipe of Tobacco altho' they have plenty."

Aug. 30
" Saturday Wind Northerly a fresh Breeze with Small Rain and thick weather. the Men Employed as yesterday. in the Evening two Families of the Home Indians came by foot round the Marsh from the North River & behave no Better to Us then those that came yesterday."

Aug. 31
" Sunday Wind NW a Stiff Breeze with Sun-shine Alternately but Still Haizy on the Land. towards Evening Mr Lockey and two Men more came Down from Deer Hunting brought two Small ones. they say there is none crofsing."

Sept. 1 1783
" Monday Wind variable with clear fine Weather. the Men Employed Airing the Furs & Stowed them into the Tent as we now begin to think no Ship will Arrive."

Sept. 2
" Tuesday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze first part cleae latter part Cloudy. the Men Employed white Washing the Mud with lime and water to fill up the Cracks that have open'd between the Logs of the Tent."

Sept. 3
" Wednesday Wind Westerly a small Breeze with clear fine Weather. at Noon Mitchell Omen Edward Wishart & Magnus Annel came down from Deer Hunting but have had no succefs. one of the Indians that Accompanied us down went away this Day at Noon."

Sept. 4
" Thursday Wind NW a fresh Gale Weather Cloudy with rain at Times. the Men Employed Weather boarding a Tent within the other over the the Furs so that no Weather will hurt them providing the Indians do not pull it down. We are now Resolved to Return as we cannot Stay any longer and God knows whether we shall that place or any place, as we have no Ammunition or any provision except a little Salt Venison & we have been living upon that for these five Days? past was it Gods will to Call us, it would be welcome for the thought of being Starved to Death with Cold & Hunger is Dreadful. Late in the Evening the North river Indians came acrofs the Island they say there is 15 Canoes of them. part of which was down last Fall after the place was Destroyed."

Sept. 5
" Friday Wind as yesterday a Strong Gale with Sleet and Rain most part of the Day. the Men Employed Shutting up the Tent Doors and putting in the Salt. there is 20 Casks Almost full."



B.87/a/6

Home