"YF Correspondence 1805"
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" To Mr Isham Master Island Lake
York Factory 28th August 1804
Mr Isham
Your long servitude and knowledge of Conciliating the affections of the Natives and trading with them causes your appoint't to Island Lake where I trust you will display these qualifications.
Last Winter Mr Whitford having trusted Several Ind.with large Debts it will be much to your Credit and the Honble Companys interest if you can obtain pay't there the Canadians are Numerous and powerful which require all your energy and prudence to effect so desirable purposes.
James Halcro being sent up by Mr Sinclair with a Considerable Stock of goods leaves little to be taken with you now the same Gent. will further you from OH with what may be judged necefsary and on your Arrival at Island Lake Ja. Halcro will give you every information which may tend to guide you in Settling for the Winter.
After consulting with James Halcro you will proceed to where may be judged the best for wintering at and Correspond with him who is to be guided by your directions. Two or three men may be left next spring and I wish the route explored down the S. River from Island Lake to the Factory. The furs to be brought to OH as last year.
I am
Your Obt. huble. Servt.
Jn McNab"


" To Mr Ja. Halcro
York Factory 28th August 1804
Mr Ja. Halcro
Mr Isham will deliver you this to his advice you will attend the men now with him will I trust enable you jointly to do Credit to yourselves and of Course benefit to the Hon. Hudsons Bay Company on all occasions it will give me pleasure to point out to them the exertions and attentions of faithful Servants among them I trust ever to particularize You and am
Yours very Sincerely
Jn McNab"


" To Mr Cameron - a Canadian trader
York Factory 38th August 1804
Sir
I rec'd yours by Mr Whitford and thank you for News from my old Residence.
Mr Whitford gave a discouraging Sample of Island Lake productions but made us hope for better as times go we should use our endeavours.
Before you receive this you will have heard of affairs acrofs the Atlantic that war rages still Mr Pitt rein stated in office Bonaparte on the eve of being elected Emperor of the Gawls. these are the latest Relations of prominency we have heard.
I have sent some Letters by Mr Isham for old Aquaint. if he cannot forward them to Mr Sanderson shall I request the favour of your taking them to OH I afsure you they have no connections with businefs and I shall esteem it an obligation.
I am
Dear Sir
Your very huble Servt.
Jn McNab."


" To Mr Ramsey - Captain of Ceres Brig
York Factory 4 Sept. 1804
Dear Sir
Capt. Turner in the King George Sailed for Europe the 27th Ult. he proposed sailing for CR in hopes of Meeting or seeing the Ceres and by that means save expences and time we waited till yesterday before Removing the Buoys the Bearer Mr Sutherland will deliver you a few Vegitables & a little Soft Bread and if you are in want of any necefs'y I shall be glad to see you at YF. Comp. to the Gent.
I am
Yours &c
Jn McNab."


" From Mr Ramsey - Captain of Ceres Brig
Ceres Brig Sept. 4th 1804
Dear Sir
I received your kind note by Mr Sutherland & am happy to hear you are well SR expected to find Capt. Turner sailed from here as my arrival at Churchill was not till the 14th Aug. & have been detained by Gales of wind three days from getting out have made every pofsible exertion to get here and shall endeavour to get out next high water thank you kindly for Vegitables &c. have put your inclosed in the packet box. you will receive pr Boat a pipe of SR Brandy 5 Casks of powder from CR a young Boar 1 Steel Bar 2 Tin boxes one bundle Deer skins - Return you many thanks for kind invitation on shore.
Mr Auld desires his respectful Comp. to the Gentlemen.
Yours Sincerely
Tho. Ramsey"


" To Mr Topping - Chief Churchill
York Factory 5 Sept. 1804
Sir
The King George Capt. Turner Sailed for Europe the 27th with near 1000 more Beaver from York thank last year SR had also a small addition.
The Brig Ceres arrived in our Roads the 4th Inst. Capt. Ramsey says there is 5 Casks of Powder two tin Boxes & a Bundle of deer skins from CR on examination I find 8 boxes & 20 burn'g Glafses therein I wish you had sent a List exprefsive of the Articles the Regulat'n of Acct. makes it necefsary - you will receive by the Bearer the Articles specified by Mr Auld.
I wish you a happy & succefsfull winter and am
Sir
Yours Sincerely
Jn McNab."


" From Mr Sinclair Master Oxford House
Oxford House 19th Feb. 1805
Dear Sir
I embrace the first Opportunity of sending these men with Letters for your Information. We arrived at Oxford House the 9 of September and the 11th Dispatched Mr Isham for the Island Lake with two Canoes and a Good afsortment of goods for the Arrangement of the men. I beg leave to refere to the note Inclosed - not doubting But that it will meet your approbation. judging it would be Gratifying to you Sir to hear from the Island Lake I desired that Letters might be sent here early in February they are sent down By this Conveyance hope they will explain their proceedings in that Quarter. It would be pleasing to me could I with any Certainty - afsure you of a mid'g Trade at this Settlements, at present their is 700 MB in the House its True I have some Chances but they are not to be Depended upon. I remarked to you Sir last Fall that some Indian men and their families had left this Quarter on Account of Death and other accidents. I am informed that they are wintering near to Cumb. House and that their is a Settlements among them from There hope the produce of their will augment their Trade at the same time it Lesens the Trade here.

The shallownefs of the water in the Holly Lake is altered our fishing this year from former Seasons with 10 Nets each Net 54 fm Long we are short of our usual number which 6 nets formerly Caught nearly 2000 Fish, to make up for this Diff. some Deers meat has been Procured which helps? us out I expect? we shall not be very Scarce before the Spring.
The mild weather we had after our arrival inabled us after some fire wood was Rafted to let out the Stock heads before the Lake was taken with Ice. 300 Palisades were Collected and put up which has Inclosed a large piece of Ground for Gardens. The Boat is in Great forwardnefs I expect to get a Small one to go to the Netts with it will be Servicable in many things.
The Pine Bark on the Roofs of the Houses is rotten in many places the Quantity of Goods and Furs that is here at times Dur'g the Summer Season require the Storehouses to be truely noticed that no rain Gets in to Damage any thing it will require from 2 to 3 hundred Pieces to repair the whole Securely. shall be glad to know if three or four men shall be employed on this Businefs when the season permits it will be Scarce to find as the Woods round the Lake is very Small and Bursh to the Roots. Wishing you a Plentiful Spring a Good Trade with every other Felicity.
I remain
Dear Sir
Your Obd. Huble Servt.
Wm Sinclair
PS Inclosed is a List of the small Articles wanted By Indians am inform'd their is no Canadians near the Nelson River Settlement I wish it may be True."


" From Mr Isham Master Island Lake
Island Lake 28th Jan. 1805
Dear Sir
I embrace this opportunity of writing to you that this place is not worth Looking after indeed Sir it is my opinion of it there is no pearson requisite to stay all summer as there is nothing to be got at all as for the Indians they are doing of nothing but running about from house to house and indeed Sir there is no beaver for the Indians to work here in they Lake and it is a thing impofsible to bring Trade out where there is none to be got only parcel of Indians and the Canadians giving throuing? a way to them for nothing their they are doing of noth'g.
Sir my opinion is to bring every thing out in the Spring and leave it and Come out by Oxford.
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Sir I remain your
Sincerely well wishes
I Expecting your Directions Sir as for the men that is been with me they are been badly most part of the winter in turns and two of them very narrowly exaped death but thank God they are gett'g pretty hearty now only we want victuals and we are very near Starving there is no fish to be got neither with nets or hooks us or the Canadians. I sent two men to James Halcro think'g they were Living better and when they Came there it was all the same.
Sir as for the trade it is very poor indeed I can hardly manning 90 MB and as for the Expences it will be very great for I cant be off giving a little and a little Oppositions at bouth pleaces.
Sir I Conclude wishing you pleasant Spring
I remain Dear Sir
Your humble Servant
Charles Tho. Isham
PS Sir please to give my Compliment to all Gentlemen round your Table."


" To Mr Sinclair Master Oxford House
York Factory 11th March 1805
Dear Sir
I received yours of the 19th Ult. and news? for Island Lake my Answer to Mr Isham you will peruse, seal and send to him as soon pofsible we must by no means relinquish a post where the Canadians think it worth their while to maintain two Stations so near the Factory. particularly when our requirements there are already nearly double to the whole returns from thence last year peospects at Oxford are very satisfactory.
The seasons here have been favorable and the Ind. in general doing well.
You are a Sufficient judge what may be necefsary for the Roofs of your Houses and I have no doubt of your keeping in good order - you - you know when the Lake open as many men as pofsible should be employed in the river.
I mean to be early at the Rock next Summer where I shall soon expect to see the Gentlemen and I trust businefs will not Require my further produre Mr Bird promised to be early Down.
Endeavour to send down trades of each particular Invoice first as you find the Craft can Convey them from OH if any Bundles are doubtful you will of course particularize them.
I wish with you the truth of the Information you have about Nelson River. The requisite papers are sent for the regulation of your Acct. which you will make out and send down early for a timeous Completion of the Acct. Book here the Gentlemen join in every good wish with
Dear Sir
Your very Huble Servt.
Jn McNab."


" To Mr Isham Master Island Lake
York Factory 11 March 1805
Mr Isham
I received your Letter date 28 Jan. last am sorry to hear your prospects are so unfavorable and that food is difficult to procure.
As the Canadians keep two stations so near the Factory as Island Lake we must not leave it - James Halcro will stay with as few men as you & he judges prudent and the Remain'g Goods to be Committed to his care. you will come out as early as pofsible yourself with the other men and the trade - I am glad to find it already considerably more than last year. If you could precure a large Canoe or two it would be advantageous where I see yourself I shall then be enabled to Judge of the propriety of keeping a station on Island Lake next winter. If Ja. Halcro is in want of any necefsary it shall be instantly sent on your arrival at the Rock House when I shall expect to see you soon.
I am Yours Sincerely
Jn McNab."


" To Mr Bird Master Edmonton
York Factory 11th March 1805
Dear Sir
According to appointment I shall expect to see you early at the Rock and if your Consignments are encreased it will be the more Satisfactory.
I need not mention to you the necefsity of the Requisite dourments for Settling Inland Acct. according to direction from the Committee The Acct. Book will be at the Rock for a general knowledge of the plan.
I have desired Mr Sinclair to fill the Craft with each particular Trade as they can convey which you will see is necefsary for making the European packages from here the easier completed.
The Gentlemen join in every good wish with
Dear Sir
Your very Huble Servt.
Jn McNab"


" To Mefs Hodgson Thomas & Bolland
Severn House 16th Jan. 1805
Gentlemen
From Severn where I arrived (in Company with Mr Bunn and 3 Ind. on a Visit to Mr Thomas) the 11th Inst. you will perceive this is addrefs'd
I had long expected to hear from the Bay & feel much concern in the disappointment, the state of businefs occasioned by the encroachments of the Canadians among you renders a knowledge of the consequences highly interest'g to the Service through out and I am sorry this cannot now be obtain by any endeavours of Mr Thomas from Severn Indians are all at their Hunting grounds & he hav'g sent the last packet has Remain'd in long expectation of one from the Bay no Vefsel of Canadians concern arrived at the Nward as we were made to dread by intimation in our Gen'l Letter from the Committee.
The returns from York were considerably better than in 1803 but still much inferior to former consignments the Settlements in Saskatchewan still lefsening their products and Athapuscow very little increased.
Seasons for provisions at York have been favorable and partridges are more numerous than for years past. hitherto the natives that came in had hopes of mak'g better hunts the? news from CR since the Ceres arrival (who touched at York and stop a few hours on her pafsage to Europe) Capt. Ramsey did not come on shore Mr Auld was also on board being obliged to go home from an indispositions occasioned by an accidental fall through a Hatchway in some of their upper floors.
Accept general good wishes for a happy new year & plentiful Seasons to yourself and Gentlemen.
I am Dear Sir
Your very huble Servt.
Jn McNab."


" From Mr Bolland Chief Eastmain
Eastmain Factory 23rd Feb. 1804
Dear Sir
A packet returning from here to Moose affords me the agreeable opportunity of a few lines to enquire after all our friends at York hop'g they are enjoying health and plenty which I am not a little happy to say is the case with us here at present thank God for it.
You'll no doubt by some means or other be inform'd of the Northwest Companys Ship the Edyston Capt. Jn Richards having visited those parts he landed his Cargo upon Charlton and was there joined by a Mr Angus Shaw who came down this River early in Summer accompany'd by two Iroquoi Indians several Kings Post do. and 4 or 5 Canadians from whence they have branched off in very directions round us, a party of them in a Large flatt Boat and several Canoes pafsed by here in the fall on their way to great River (about 300 Miles to the Northw'd of us) accompanied by that ungraateful Monter S Hester? as their guide and Trader who engaged with them as a yearly Servant immediately after arrival at 40 or 50 £ pr Ann. As soon as I was made aquainted with their intentions. I sent of George and Jacob Atkenson Wm Paulson and two Ind. lads to settle a long side them and match their Motions since Xmas L? Akenson has been here Requisting more goods and informs me they have hitherto been pretty succefsful in keeping the Indians from them and supposes they have scarcly got a skin since the River set fast, but in spite of all we can do they will get short our coast being so extensive and they so numerous its impofsible to match all parties.
Mr Shaw with his party Return'd back by the same rout he came gave me to understand Capt. Richards would be at York next Summer.
The Gentlemen here join me in Compliments and good wishes to Yourself and Officers at York who am
Dear Sir
Your very humble Servant
Wm Bolland"


" From Mr Thomas Master Moose Fort
Moose Fort April 10th 1804
Dear Sir
In order to prevent disappointment of Summer communications I have taken an early opportunity to forward this my acknowledgement of the receipt of your favor of 15 Feb. 1803 which came to hand the 5th August and to communicate occurences here.
Capt. Hanwell in the Prince arrived the 18th August & sailed the 16th Sept. with 5964 MBeav. from here which notwithstanding the opposition of Canadians was 3/4? more than the preceeding year the Fall season was propitious our Goose Hunt being greater considerably than usual of late years & Partridges have been plenty during the Winter which has been remarkably mild, the present state of our Trade & expections are good though our opponents are numerous & active than here to fore & our Compliment so much reduced that we have only thirteen Hands Inland to distribute among five different Forts? a Canoe return'd from one of them (New Brunswick) the 5th Nov. last with good accounts of their Succefs. Mr More who was one of the Persons in the Canoe was unfortunately lost in running a rapid. Jn Robertson a Native youth who was with him in the Canoe saved himself clinging to the Canoe.
Capt. Richard Arrival in the Edystone in these parts & sailing the 13th Oct. & you will no doubt learn from other hands a Mr Frazer who Arrived late last Fall by the way of Ruperts River & paid us a visit is I understand to visit the sea coat next summer by the way of York River he set off on his return by the same route he came about the middle of Feb. and a Mr McTavish from Chartlon Island who also visited us has recently pafs'd & repafs'd from our opponents Settlement on Hays? Inland they speak with the greatest confidence of Two of their Ships coming down the Bay & one visit'g York next summer
All at the Factory are in good health & the experienced hand in full Employ looking out to counteract the designs of our opponents who have Men out to intercept Trade. shall be glad to hear of your health and succefs the Gentlemen here Unite in Compliments to Yourself and Officers.
Dear Sir
Your very Humble Servt.
Jn Thomas."


" Mr Hodgson Chief Albany
Albany Factory 1st March 1805
Dear Sir
Your several Letters reached me the 27th Feb. with a great deal of pleasure of hearing from our Friends at the Northward a circumstance we long wished for was happy to hear of your Welfares it was my determination to have sent a Packet next summer this conveyance has therefore anticipated my Intentions
It gives us all much concern to hear the Trade at the Northward falls so short of its former produce the last year. Our Red River Trade fell short considerably occasioned by the opposisitions you experienced? in the interior Country but others places did well. The Trade at Albany increased last year being near 22,000 Moose 6000 and odd and Eastmain 7000 odd so that the Bay Ship had above 35,000 Made Beaver on board for Europe. The Albany Trade was as fine Furrs as ever went out of the Country very few Wolves among it.
Thank God we have yet had no Visits from the other Company's (though there has been talk about it some time) except at Osnaburgh, and other Posts in the Nippegon which opposition encreases upon us every year - At Moose the opposition still continues. Mr Thomas the Surgeon left the Company Service last October and now Commands the Post in opposition to Moose Factory. They have also great opposition at Eastmain Capt. Richards brough a Ship down the Bay the Fall before last and took pofsesion of Charlton Island in the name of the NW Company and ? ? ? emplo'd in occup'g? Ruperts & Eastmain? River and to the Northward There is talk of their coming to Albany but I much doubt their abilities till they send out another Ship as I understand their Provisions are near expend'd? and they have now deserted Charlton Island and occupy themselves along the Eastmain Coast and Hannah Bay I understand they have yet made very little of it except at Ruperts River last year they got as much Furrs as the Post from Eastmain established there.

For these two years past Albany has experienced propitions Seasons Partridges very plentiful this winter and a very capital Hunt in the Fall enabled us to live allmost on Country Provisions alone we have thank God all enjoyed tolerable Health since the Cold commenced but last summer an Epidemical disorder attacked us very few escaped and were brought nearly to the brink of the Grave yet all recovered we supposed it to be occasioned by the dry weather the River was scarce a drop of rain fell the whole summer and the River was so dry that it was with great difficulty and Labour the goods were conveyed to Martins Fall.
I am sorry to acquaint you that Mr Bolland the Chief at Eastmain departed this Life just before the Ship arrived last August of a Dropsy and Mr Mannel now Commands there. - By the Christmas Packet from Moose we learnt all was well at both places and Provisions plentiful but the Canadians troublesome.

The Ship arrived in Moose Roads the 5 of August and Sailed again the 21st Sept. several of the Officers from Moose and Eastmain returned in her and also Mr John Cobb of Albany. - By the early arrival of the Ship the Fall supplies was forwarded Inland in very good time and I have hopes the Trade at Albany will not be diminished this year.
I send my hearty wishes for Succefs to attend you with Health and Continunce of Plenty the Gentlemen at my Table join in these wishes with
Dear Sir
Your Most Obt. Servt.
Jn Hodgson"


" From Mr Thomas Master at Severn
Severn March 27th 1805
Dear Sir
Soon after I had the Pleasure of seeing you in the Winter an Opportunity offer'd of send a Packet to Albany the Indians arriv'd here on their return the 21st Inst. and having remain'd a few Days to refresh themselves are now dispatched with the Northern Letter which I hope you will receive in time to answer every purpose.
You will rejoice with me to find that the NW Companys Affairs down the Bay are not in the most prosperous state. I hope & trust it will be very long as the have it in their power to visit the Northern Settlements. - Since you left us many Families of Natives have arrived in a distrefs'd State and are now chiefly supported by us this is by no means flattering to my Hopes of a succefsful Trade.
I hope to be inform'd by the Return of these Ind. of your Health & succefs & Remain
Your Obedt. Hble Servt.
Thomas Thomas"


"To Mr Topping Chief Churchill
York Factory 10 April 1805
Dear Sir
I send this packet purposely with Letters for CR from the Bay. News of our opponents difficulties there will no doubt be satisfactory to you and may tend to facilitate the service at Churchill I understand they have had no further European supply and are now in scarcity.
I expected the state of Accounts from you as mentioned in my last by these Indians return I trust you will send it the YF Account Book of this year cannot be deferred it must go in our next years accounts.
The season has been plentiful and the Indians in general doing well similar reports from CR will be satisfactory. The Gentlemen join in every good wish with
Dear Sir
Your huble Servt.
Jn McNab."


" To Mr Hodgson Chief Albany
York Factory 11th April 1805
Dear Sir
Your of the 1st Ult. I received days ago the Conveyers now return to Severn with this which I hope you will Receive by the Packet you purpose sending ensuing Summer.
It is very stisfactory? to hear of the increasing trades from the Bay at present their is reason to hope for an addition from here and the little news we have rec'd from Inland was favorable The knowledge of the State of our opponents down the Bay was anxiously wished and may tend to make businefs go easier on here and at CR for which place a Packet now sets out with your Letter.
Am happy to hear of general plenty in Bay. I have I have Indented for no Beef or Pork since my Arrival here. I am sorry to hear of Mr Bollands death a warning of our frailty I little expected to Mr B it is pleasing to hear your Inland services were so much furthered by the favorable fall and I hope with your trade will not be diminished and the Gentlemen here join there in
I am
Dear Sir
Yours &c
Jn McNab."


" To Mr Mannell Master Eastmain
York Factory 11th April 1805
Dear Sir
I rec'd a letter from the late Mr Bolland (whose decease I am sorry to hear of) dated 23rd Feb. 1804 [blank] days ago the bearers now return to Severn with this which I hope will reach you the ensuing Summer.
The strong opposition you experience from Canadians must be unpleasant, it is agreable to find their succefs hitherto has been so inconsiderable this every Servant to the Hon. Hudsons Bay Company who has their interest at heart (of whom I trust there is not few) will be pleased to hear.
Since my last from Severn in January Letters from Inland tell us that by Indian reports there no Canadian Traders have came to our lower posts or those up Churchill River that prospects were better there as is the Case at Factory.
Dear Sir
Your hble Servant
Jn MN"


" To Mr Thomas Master Moose
York Factory 11th April 1804
Dear Sir
I received yours of Apl. last [blank] days ago the Bearers now set out for Severn with this which I hope will Reach you the ensuing Summer.
I am happy to hear of your increase of Trade. My last from Severn told you the N ern news since that date we have heard from the Nearest House Inland their prospects better than last year and they tell us from Indian report that no Canadians pafsed last fall to our lower Settlements at the N ward or these from Churchill at present their is every Reason to hope the Factory trade will be considerably increased. I have heard nothing of Mr Frazer on our Coasts and I am hop'g we shall not have so many Causes for disquietude from so near Neighbours as you must be harafsed with.
My Mefsmates join in best wishes for your health and happinefs with
Dear Sir
Your hble Servant
Jn McNab."


" To Mr Thomas Master Severn
York Factory 12th Apl. 1805
Dear Sir
Your Indians arrived with the Bay news and a Packet is gone expeditiously for Churchill I think the intelligence rec'd will tend highly to benefit the Service and I cannot sufficiently command your attention on this occasion.
Our News from Oxford House tell us that from Indian Report no Canadians went last fall to our lowest posts about Mr Cook or CRiver as usual and Mr Sinclair say his prospects are better than last year Mr Isham at Island Lake say there is two Canadian Houses close by him on that Lake - the chief trader (Munroe) was a Midical man and Caneron? Removed from that department In Feb. our aquirements there doubled Mr Whitfords trade last year but their hopes are small as few Ind. have been during winter.
Our Ind. are now Coming in and bringing better Hunts than I have seen at York I trust you will realize your usual succefs and the Gent. join in wishing you every happinefs with
Dear Sir
Your very Huble Servt.
Jn McNab."


" From Mr Topping Chief Churchill
Churchill Factory April 17th 1805
Dear Sir
Wilks and another Southern Indian arrived the 16th Inst. and delivered your Packet. I am happy to hear you are all well at YF thank God we cannot complain tho' some time back I was very indifferent myself.
Your packet by Ja. Wood & Budge in the Fall came safe to hand but they had fling away the Pitch soon after they had left YF it being with the other things they had too much for them to carry Ja. Wood says he mentioned it before he left YF it would have been very acceptable had it arrived as there is none here. The other articles were right excepting the Flints, which upon being counted five times over by two people were only 1820 instead of 2000. The parcels were perfectly complete and had not been broken. - The articles requested upon the back of your letter in the Fall I should be happy could I accomodate you with but they are those of which we are very scarce and not sufficient for the present season.
Am sorry you met my any? inconvenience for want of a list of the four Articles such by the Brig Ceres.
Enclosed is an Account current between CR & YF and hope you will find it right you will see I have deducted what you paid Wilks on CR account from what I paid James Wood & Budge by you desire on the back of your letter on YF Account and charged YF difference in the Goods paid them. It would have been better for the regulation of Accounts had it been specified in yours the Articles paid Wilks.
Not having had any thing particular to send to YF about, I did not think myself justified in putting the Hon. Company to the expence of a Packet and cannot conceive the reason why the YF Accounts Books should be deferred till you heard from CR as the Packet Book would easily inform what articles had been supplied by each place.
During the winter Partridges have bee plentiful but no Deer. - The Indians are beginning to drop in and hitherto have been pretty well Furred. - I beg my Compliments to the Gentlemen of York and wishing you health and plenty of Trade. I am
Sir
Your hble Servant
Thomas Topping."


" To Mr Sinclair Master Oxford House
York Factory 22nd May 1805
Dear Sir
You will attend to from intimations fowarding the Inland trades as speedily to the Rock as pofsible there I trust to be the 10th of next Month at farthest and wait the Arrivals of the Inland Gentlemen yours also if businefs will admitt - all the Canvas Bags at OH and from Inland should be Carefully sent down. there is no old Canvas at the Factory and none coming from Europe the Requisite papers for your Acct. will of course be sent.
I am
Your &c
Jn McNab."


" From Mr Fidler
Nottingham House Ath. 12th Jan. 1805
Dear Sir
According to your desire I send two men to the Isle ala crofse to receive your Letter in order to know your final determination concerning whether or not we are all to leave this next Spring and abandon the Athapescow cournty intirely - or whether we are to remain - This I wish to known as soon as pofsible that I may communicate the intellingence to Mr Swain at Slave Lake or the ? that he may make every necefsary preparation in time in order to expidite our getting out as early as pofsible in the Spring to Cumberland House as soon as the Rivers & Lakes pofsible with Canoes.
A very serious affair happened here early in June last, the Jepawyans or northern Indians killed 4 of the Old Co'y men within 5 miles of their house & another party attackd & plundered one of their Settlements at the East end of this Lake & murdered the two men that was there since which not a singlr Indian of that tribe (the only people who trade here) have made his appearance and there is every probability that not one will visit here this Season. - so that it will be impofsible a Single Skin can got here by any party - but I hope & expect that great number of them will visit Churchill next Summer (in consequence of the above afair & as they will for some time be afraid to see the Canadians, in these parts Especially) - & that at least some part of the lofses that will inevitably fall on the Company by us here will be made up should they go to Churchill.

This treatment the Canadians have now met with they have richly merited these 2 or 3 year back on account of their very harsh & ill usage? the Jepowy's have constantly rec'd from them as the Canadians since that period have taken every thing from them they could lay their hands on their being so numerous it was seldom an Indian escaped their avaricious Vigilance.
We arrived here 18th Sept. & found all well in 4 Day after Mr Swain went for Slave Lake in one Canoe who winters upon of the Moors Island in that Lake where all parties built at this summer & I have not heard from him since. their is good reason to expect that his succefs in furs their will be too much samilar to us here - as I doubt whether any Jepewyans will visit their this Winter.
Our fishing has been pretty ? having now near 3000 Tick'g before hand - while our Neighbour are just from hand to mouth - particularly the Old Comp'y whom one cannot sinc'ly pitty as they always esult? in other people want.
Wishing much better Succefs to the Company affairs than is in this Quarter.
I remain
Dear Sir
Your Obt. Servt.
P Fidler"


" From Mr Howse
Cumberland House 10th June 1805
Sir
Your Esteemed favor of last Fall came safe to hand please to accept my best Acknowledgement for it.
Having had great reason to be difsatisfied with the Behaviours of William Snoulton during the last Winter I take the Liberty of sending him down to be dealt with according to his Directs? As it is impofsible to give you a circumstantial Detail of that continued Impropriety of Conduct I have been obliged to witnefs during that period I shall limit myself to the bare mention of such Circumstances of it as to me seem particularly deserving Reprehension - 1st. It has been his daily practice to make to our opponents a Disclosure of every the most minute Transaction within our Fort 2dly. By the most mischevious and want on Falsehoods he was the means of exposing the whole of us to the imeninent danger of an Attack from a very numerous enraged and armed Band of Ind. 3dly. In more than one Instance he most peremptorily refused to Orders, making it his Boast to our opponents, that his Master wished to have his way but that he (Snoulton) shewed him he would have his own way - To which may be added an unhappy Disposition to excite - and foment Family Quarrels & Difsentions for to use the Exprefsion of my Neighbour Mr McDonald Two people must entertain of each other an extrimely good Opinion indeed if he (Snoulton) does not set them together by the Ears - If such Behaviour may be considered as Offences I beg leave to afsure you that he is highly culpable.
The Arrangement made by Mr Bird prior to my Arrival prevent my going down & communicating to you my Complaints in person consequently he has it in his power and will doubtlefs avail himself to the opportunity to misrepresent both his Behaviour and mine conscious however as I am of the Rulitude? of my own Conduct in whatever View considered I have not the least Hesitation in reforming you to the rest of the Hon. Co's Servants who wintered with me and whose united Testimony I doubt not will confirm the Truth of what I have here advanced and justify me in every Step I have taken.
Having now discharged a Duty I owe to my Hon. Employers & to myself I have only to request that you will thoroughly investigate every Circumstance that may present itself to your Attention not forgetting the candid handsome Avowal of Mr McDonald this Spring This done I feel confident you will regard Snoulton as a Man of a very depraved profligate Character averse from every thing that is good, but capable of and greatly disposed to do an infinite deal of Mischief - as such I am persuaded you are too great a friend to the Hon. Co's Interest and to domestic Harmony as subservient thereto to put it again in his power to injure the one or disturb the other.
I am Sir
very respectfully
Your Mos. Obt. hble Servant
Jos. Howse."


" To Mr Topping Chief Churchill
York Factory 17th July 1805
Dear Sir
As last year I send this packet think'g as I did then that one Ship only may come for the Nward Factories if that is the Case most likely she will touch first at Churchill if so I trust you will send the bearers of this instantly with our European Packet being sent with the greatest expedition.
The parcels of Flints sent you Mr Bunn took as rec'd from Europe the Defficiency is great we counted several parcels after the Receipt of your Letter on a mean the Defficiency was 15 in each.
Our trade will be consid'y more than last year and Mr Fidler makes me think this will be the Case also at CR. I left him and the other Gentlemen at OH the 7th Inst. in a few days I hope they will set out for their Respective Stations with best Comp. to the Gentlemen at CR.
I am
Dear Sir
Your Huble Servt.
Jn McNab."


" To Mr Bird Master Edmonton
York Factory 17th July 1805
Dear Sir
These Canoes carry the Articles Requested - The Brazil Tobacco is good I hope you will find it so from Cumberland I shall expect your Indent of every Article for the Saskachewan as a guidance to the Gen. Indent from here any thing you may now require shall be sent by the Canoe with the European packet and several men will be added to your List by that Conveyance I meant 5 men in each of these Canoes 4 only I can send. I wish you a pleasant journ'y and am
Dear Sir
Your very Huble Sevt.
Jn McNab."


" To Mr Sinclair Master Oxford House
York Factory 17th July 1805
Dear Sir
These Canoes Convey the Articles Required. I hope they will speedily reach OH that these men who are not to proceed above may soon be here as the season is late and businefs prefsing the Feather Bags & from CH you will of Course send down and such additions to the trade as you may Receive.
I am
Dear Sir
Your very Huble Servt.
Jn McNab."


" From Mr Sutherland
Oxford House July 14th 1805
Sir
By the arrival of the Canoes I was favor'd with your letter - I thank you for your good wish towards me and accordingly have altered my resolution for had I seen an adequate number of men agree for the Athapuscow I should not have hesitated to accompany them but as their did not my services was not necefsary in that Quarter Consequently Mefs Bird & Fidler has pitched upon me to go to Green Lake - a place in every way as disagreeable as the former, however I have undertaken to try it for a year and promise to act to the utmost of my abilities for the good of my Employers and satisfaction of my superiors but should things turn out Otherwise as it has every appearance to do I hope that my former exertions will convince my superieors that the faults will not be owing to me and I depend upon your explanation of circumstances to the Company in case it may be hurtful to my character should things turn out badly I flatter myself to think had I been Continued at any of the posts in Saskechewan river that I would have been able to give Satisfactory Returns for the Goods entrusted in my care but now I am going to a place where a Quantity of goods squandered away for very little so that my prospects is not very flattering.
Your Most Obt.
Humble Servant
Ja. Sutherland."


" From Mr Kennedy
Oxford House July 19th 1805
Sir
Being just on the eve of embarking for Cumberland I do myself the pleasure of acknowledging the receipt of yours from Gordon House before my departure and of thanking you for the warm part which you see to take in my Interest which will ever be my highest ambition to merit.
Your directions shall be strictly attended to and you may rest afsured that however things may turn out there shall be nothing wanting in my power to give every satisfaction - If it only required alacrity & attention on my part. I flatter myself that I would not fail of meet'g? our most sanguine expectations but the strong opposition that I have reason to expect at Cumberland House next Season in consequence of the junction of the two Companies & repeated attempts the OLD NWC has made to decoy our Indians makes me doubt that all my endeavours with the few hands left three will be too feeble to oppose a of Fellows who are always on the catch to take advantage where they can. However strong they may be they can only cheat us out of a Skin but they cannot frighten us out of one.
I am
Sir
Your very Hble
& Most Obedt. Servt.
Alex Kennedy"


" From Mr Bird Master at Edmonton
Oxford House July 19th 1805
Sir
Tomorrow I propose setting off for Cumberland with two Boats the others must remain here till the Canoes from YF and one that I have sent to the Rock for the things left there return the last six Canoes might certainly have brought all without the least inconvenience as they arrived with the weight of only 11 pieces exclusive of Shot in each Canoe. As I suppose it to have been principally Wm Fletts Fault that any part was left. I have given him the Trouble of fetching it. Perhaps it may prevent his being so much governed by the Opinion of others in future. Soon after the arrival of the Canoes on the 17th Inst. we endeavoured to engage Men for the N'd agreeable to your Direction but without succefs and Mr Fidler in consequence was Obliged to set off yesterday with only two Canoes. As this has given rise to some Arrangements which without your having a Knowledge of certain little Circumstances might appear rather exceptionable it is necefsary on my own Account to relate our proceeding partly however tedious it may appear - As steersmen were of the first Consideration we agreed to procure these before we spoke to any other Men that as Home was to be the Result of a Denial no more might be put to the Test than Circumstances would require. Berston and Garrock were call'd and they absolutely refused Josh.? Lewis was than tried he pleaded inability from a Complaint in his Breast saying also that if he recovered he would go next year &c and Mr Fidler was so convinced of his Incapacity as to think him unfit for his Purpose. Mr Fidler endeavor'd again privately to prevail on Berston or Garrock but without Effect. we therefore now thought it to no purpose to try Budge since two Canoes would answer just as well as three but however sent for him he pleaded inability &c also, and prefer'd being sent home. Seeing that we could not get four Canoes for the Northward I immediately thought of making an outfit for Green Lake that Mr Fidler might conduct the Canoes as far as Isle a Crofs and sent for Budge again. I now told him that considering his consenting to go to the Northw'd would be to no Purpose since all the others absolutely refused. I would forgive him and accept of his Services if he chose to go to the above place he consented and I have accordingly fitted out two Canoes for Beaver River with Mr Sutherland as Master and they embarked in company with Mr Fidler. What you will think of my employing Mr Sutherland I know not; that he would have gone to the Athapuscaw had it been necefsary & that I had no other proper person to send to the place he is now to occupy, are the only excuses I can make for him or myself.

After Matters were thus settled Garrock offer'd his Services for the Northward but as another could not be procured they were not accepted and he is to return from Cumberland with Berston and Rowland. This last person was not ask'd to go with Mr Fidler he talks of returning Inland again in the Fall or would wish to go now. - previous to the Receipt of your Letter Mr Fidler had determined owing to some Representations I made to him on going up Peace River himself and taking Donald instead of Mr Sutherland with him as the former would in this case answer his purpose as well as the latter; but as four Canoes could not be procured Donald remains here. Mr Fidler is to make an attempt for four Canoes at Cumberland and afterwards at Isle a la Crofs - Perhaps when the Men are so far in the Way he may succeed. - An Account of the Resolves & Distribution of the Men as far as I can at present make it, is inclosed, how they may be divided in the Saskatchewan as well as what Goods will be sent above Cumberland its impofsible for me to foresee; This cannot be determined till long after the Canoe you mention will have left Cumberland, but all the Accounts will be forwarded to you as early as pofsible next spring. I have seen no Letter from Mr Snoulton. Fatt if it can be procured shall certainly be brought down to prevent any Disappointment the Quantity requisite should be mentioned. I have desired Mr Howse to send you down two Kegs now, Robinsons Canoe is left. - The Resolves of the Men last summer at Edmonton are in the Copy of the Co.s Answer to the Mens requests of last year which I return'd you at Gordon House - If it depends on me and the Season will permit you may rely on the Boats being down earlier next year and meeting me by the time you appoint. - It will be very necefsary for you to send back the Inland Accounts Book in the Fall as otherwise no correct statements can be formed. - was I to continue in my present Situation I should certainly wish that some Regulation were made respecting the Goods landed here for the different Outfits, at present? little more is sent than what is supposed to be absolutely necefsary for Cumberland House and its Dependencies yet notwithstanding Island Lake must first be supply'd out of this then the North'd Gentlemen take what they please and the Remainder be what it will we must put up with the Consequence naturally is that we must short? of several little Articles Now for instance there is left for us two pit saw & five Store Files which are certainly too few for the Work we must have done 50 Skains of Twine instead of a hundred, not one Net Line 6 common shirts instead of five times the Number and not one third of the Blankets we require besides many other Articles. If a scarcity of many necefsary Articles must prevail tis reasonable that all should partake of the Inconvenience a rising from it, it may be true that at all Events the Company are the only Loosers but its equally so that a Trader who has not the necefsary Goods for his place is at least doubly troubled. As exact an Account as I can at present form of the Goods that will be wanted next year shall be sent by the Canoe that returns from Cumberland. The paper we have is far too little for the Correspondence & other purposes necefsary in the management of the Companys Businefs tho' a single sheet ? not used for private Letters. you will perceive that we have not yet so many Men up the Saskatchewan as last year therefore should the Canadians settle in upper South Branch & near the Rocky Mountain it will be impofsible for us to oppose them at both places and occupy all the other Settlements I hope however that the Branch will be relinquished. - As Ashburns Faults appear not to have been of a very heinious - Nature I have engaged him at his Old Wages. - I could much wish to have a Statement of all the Mens Times and Wages as well as a Copy of the Co.'s answers to their last years requests.
Wishing you an early sight of the Ship with agreeable News from England.
I remain Sir
Your Obedient huble Servant
James Bird"


" From Mr Sinclair Master at Oxford House
Oxford House July 28th 1805
Sir
The Canoes arrived yesterday at 10 AM and Deliver'd their Cargoes in good order. The two Boats that was waiting for the Goods I dispatched at 8 AM This morning for Cumberland House no time was lost after the Goods was landed Feather Bags and Empty Rundlets is sent Down by this Convey'ce also 60 MB which I have Collected.
I Remain Sir
Your Obt. Huble Servt.
Wm Sinclair"


" From Mr Sinclair Master at Oxford House
Oxford House July 19th 1805
Sir
I spared my little Tent to Mr Bird and I was under the necefsity to take John Ballandens tent from him and give to one of the last Two Boats - I told him I would represent it to you - Sir & he should get one made against the Fall as Two Taylors is going down - I should Esteem it a favour to have a Small Tent for myself - a Large one is Cumbersome I should be glad if George Garson made mine - William Hawkland goes down by this Conveyance - I was intended to have keept him till Ship Time - for this Place He Knows the Size I had 12 Nets in the Spring and they are nearly all uselefs now being Constantly in the Water - all Summer fishing for Boats men &c &c 18 Skains of Twine that Came up was not worth Carri-age to mile sand it was rotten & fit for no Purpose under the Sun - this Parcel Cont'g this Twine was Brought up By Wm Budge & from Information I rec'd it got wet on the road while in his care. I have Charged part of it to his Book Debt & the Men that was in the Canoe with him. It is my Determination with your Approbation to Charge any men with the goods that he Damages Through Carelefsnefs. This will be the means of them paying more attention in future to what they may have in Charge of the Companys property as I keep a regular Check of every Canoes Cargoe that is Landed here it is easy to find out the Person who does the Mischief.
I Remain
Dear Sir
Your Obt. Huble Servt.
Will. Sinclair"


" From Mr Sinclair Master at Oxford House
Oxford House July 29th 1805
Dear Sir
The Best of my Judgement I have forgot nothing - that should have been sent down by these Canoes. Simpson I Desired to take a little Flour from the Rock I have nothing to give him from here - I shall examine every thing as I come Down and bring down a True account with me the Bills drawn this year - Iron Hoops and the things from Gordon House shall come by me Last Canoes - I have not Delayed a moment to Disp't the Canoes.
I Remain
Dear Sir
Your Obt. Huble Servt.
Wm Sinclair"


" To Don. Sutherland
York Factory 17th August 1805
Mr Don. Sutherland
Mr Sinclairs juding you worthey of the Charge of Oxford House in his absence gives me confidence of your merits on the occasion you will attend to the particular desires he may Communicate by this Conveyance it will always give me pleasure to find your Recomended by your Superiors being-
Yours Sincerely
Jn McNab"


" From Mr Sutherland Inland Master
Cumberland House August 4th 1805
Sir
As I have returned inland on the Strength of your last letter & as my Contract will expire next year (as I suppose) I hope that you will give me such a recomendation to the Company as will ensure me wages equal to my fellow servants that enjoys a Comfortable situation in the Saskechewan River and are in the way of adding a trifle to their wages every year; if my superiors considers me even as fit to do my duty as my Equals (as I have every reason to think they do) I think myself entitled to an equal Salary; it is true I have not been such an old Servant as some of them has been but it is very poor encouragement for a young man for his Exertions to think that his wages is not to be raised before he has been a number of years in the Country; had I continued in my former Station or any part in this river I should not have been troublesom in respect of wages; Should you consider me deserving of such a recomendation I will think myself very much favoured and hopes to be able to act & Beheave in such a manner as will give no cause for retracting it; Should you think that I Cannot expect such an Indulgence Would be happy to be Informed accordingly.
We are ready to embark to morrow but I dread the Result of the Expedition will not prove satisfactory as we are all Strangers to the Country and the Indians & the men I have got with me is very ill Calculated for any kind of enterprize not one of them Capable of running about after the Ind.
(As I understand the remains of provisions at this place last spring was not entered in the account Book I have now mentioned it Viz. flour 180 lb Tea 2 lb)
Should any packages come out for me from England if you please to let them be forwarded by the fall packet I will think myself very much favoured.
Sir
Your Most Obt. Hble Servt.
James Sutherland"


" From Mr Hallett
Paint Creek July 21st 1805
Sir
Nothing Particular as Occur'd since Mr Bird took his Departure unlefs that many Indians of the Blackfeet & Stone Indians tribe have paid Us a Visit which gave us a favorable Opportunity of Trading a very good Supply of Pounded meat & Greese Sufficient to make 60 Bags of Pim'n the Furs are so few that we have collected During the Summer that I thought it not worth while to send them Down. I have thought it proper to send a supply of 10 Bags of Pim'n to Cumberland House a post that in General stands much in need.
Our Opponents the Canadians set out about 20 Days ago to new revize their post at the Mountain & I am heartly sorry to say that it was not in power to send in company with them owing to the fewnefs of our hands I much fear that they will collect a little Trade of Beaver Skins before we will be able to oppose them for many of the Southward Indians have Pitched upwards in order to kill the Beaver that have been so long spoke of.
You will much Oblige me in letting me know the Co. resolves this ensuing Fall also in send'g me up my Articles which I expect out with the Ship.
I am Sir
Your Obt. Huble Servt.
Henry Hallett"


" From Mr Kennedy Master at Cumberland
Cumberland House August 4th 1805
Sir
I arrived here with Mr Fidler the 2nd Inst. after a tolerable pafsage of fourteen Days from Oxford House & early tomorrow the Canoe embarks again for York with the small Trade procured here in the Summer as Mr Howse will inform you.
Two Days work below this we fell in with the low Country Indians that winter at Moose Lake last Year together with several others that has come up this Summer from North River. they were tenting with the French Bungees with whom they say they are going to pafs the winter some where beyond the Baskquea' we try'd to persuade them to go down to Trout River so that they might be entirely out of the way of the Canad. but could not prevail on more than two who made a very fair promise.
The Indians belonging to this House has been followed by the Canadians all Summer who for want of men at this place has got the greatest part of their Trade & there is every appearance of being a strong opposition in the Winter however I hope when Mr Bird arrives he will put it into my power to have some little chance with them as without Men that can run about in the winter all my Efforts will be of little avail - There must at least be two Settlements from this place one with the low Country Indians and another with the principle part of our own Indians who talk of winter'g at a place call'd Candle Lake where I propose going myself if agreeable to Mr Bird.
James Sandison arrived from above a few Days before we did but did not bring down a Skin of the Summer Trade tho I hear there was some procured at the upper Houses nor did he bring down more provisions than will be necefsary for the use of the Craft which has to go to their wintering ground the want of which will be much felt at Cumberland.
If a few small Blankets could be spared in the Fall they will be much wanted here or a piece of blue or red duffel as from the small quantity that are coming up Mr Bird will not be able to supply this place.
With wishing you good news from England and a prosperous Winter.
I remain
Sir
Your very Hble
and Most Obed. Servt.
Alex Kennedy"


" To Mr Auld Chief at Churchill
York Factory 25th August 1805
Dear Sir
Surely you do not imagine that I shall be silent be cause it has pleased you to be so you may rest afsured of the contrary and when I thus write it is to the Chief at Churchill on businefs lefs important to either him or myself than for those both ought to obey had it pleased you to send the Packet by the Ind. sent on purpose to bring it this trouble would have been saved and the Service benifited.
Brandy and fine Twine we shall be in great want of. you know it's not long ago since a Considerable quant'y of the former was hauled to CR from YF I wish to know in time if you can afsist us now that dependence may be had & preparation made for Similiar employment to YF - Severn has supplied us with Tob. an increase of 7000 B. Causes this difficiency.
Will you favor us with your Company at YF the enssuing Winter or shall I do myself the pleasure of taking a walk to CR either will give me much pleasure
I am
Dear Sir
Your very Hible Servt.
Jn McNab"


" From Mr Auld Chief at Churchill
Churchill Factory 17th August 1805
Sir
By a very unaccountable mistake your packet men did not get the European Packet which they might to have gone on board Ship to receive C'n Turner when he arrives will explain. I have engaged 2 Capital Indians to follow your 2 packeters who cannot walk fast as they had been permitted to take a young girl from YF with them I have great hopes therefore they will be overtaken before they are at Owl River if not they are to exert themselves to the utmost in getting to you with the Packet Box.
Yours &c
William Auld"

[faded writing] "They were not carried on board the King George. The Indians knew they were to go to the Ship"


" To Mr Auld Chief at Churchill
York Factory 28th August 1805
Dear Sir
Your Ind. brought our Packet which we wondered was not sent by our own, I had dispatched two others exprefs to know if you could spare us Brandy as ment'd to Mr Topping and if you send none by the Ship or no answer to this before the 1st Feb. shall trust to your afsistance and prepare accordingly to haul it overland as was done to CR from YF a few years ago fine Twine we also will be in distrefs for; Severn has spared us Tobacco.
Will you favor us with a visit in Winter or shall I have the pleasure of a Walk to Churchill to visit you as I have ment'd if I hear not from you or have not the pleasure of your visit before the 1st of next Feb. I shall do myself the pleasure if taking a walk there.
I am
Dear Sir
Your very Huble Servt.
Jn McNab"


" To Mr Bird Master at Edmonton
York Factory 2nd Sept 1805
Dear Sir
I rec'd yours of the 20 July if you thought Wm Fletts inattention impeded the Receipt of Articles left by the six Canoes you acted right in making him feel the Consequence.
I am sorry you could not engage men for the Atha. as I have told you it is my opinion we ought to keep up that Station whatever the Returns may be therefore if the men appointed to Br. River should ultimately go with Mr Fidler I shall be glad.
You have acted judiciously on the occasion and the harmony and united endeavors to add extension to our interior exertions does credit to the Gent. at Oxford with Mr Ja. Sutherlands Conduct I am highly satisfied.
The servants Resolves &c are rec'd I leave the quant'y of Fat to your discretion if it is good it might prevent the Necefs'y of Indent'g for suet as well as Candles. the Acct. Book is sent.
I am sorry to find you dubious of a Continuance in your Situation I flattered myself Mr Calders judgement and dexterity would have restored your health and still trust you will experience this eventually Hitherto you know the Goods have uniformly consigned in the manner you complain of Indents of each depart't will be satisfacto'y attended to as the only Variations that can take place.
The instances of inconvenience particular &? you will find removed by the remittance of every Article in your List of wants from OH. - and you will receive 2 Bales of Blue Cord'd Cloth added thereto. - before the rece't of your Letter As you say where scarcity occurs it is Right the Consequence should be equally felt the proportion of Blankets Consign'd to OH in 1804 & 5 exceeded the half of the Gen'l Stock and Cotton? Shirts upwards of two thirds - you know the former Article is in more request in trade at the lower than at the higher Settl'ts and that many men from Inland have that necefsary at the Factory on their return to Europe - I mention these Circumstances to you because I know your Oconomical desires and that as our returns to Europe lefsen, our sollicitude for diminishing the Consumption of trading Goods & stores ought to increase you may depend on every attention to your Indent - the Number of your men will equal that of last year and I trust you will be able to act with Vigor as Usual on every requisite occasion.
Be cautious in not letting the Heirs of J Spence receive more than directed by their Honors it is £ 20 for 2 or 3 yr from 1803 this year they are to receive £ 20 Wm Walkers B Debt & bills exceeded his wages of last year this should be guarded against.
I am Dear Sir
Your Ob. Hublr Servt.
Jn McNab.
PS Mr Fidler wishes in case of his return to A? that several men Could be engaged and ready at Cumb'd there you will consider of and be guided by circumstances Only one man rec'd from Europe Checks us Severely."


" To Mr Fidler Master at Athapuscow
York Factory 2nd Sept. 1805
Dear Sir
I rec'd yours of the 4th Aug. last am sorry you could not man the number of Canoes you intended for Athapuscaw this year we have rec'donly one man from Europe you must therefore be guided by events if your trade increases much we must do the utmost to keep our ground if your returns are no more than hitherto the removal will give lefs concern, but it would much tend to the power and profit of our opponents a circumstance we ought attentively to consider I enclose the Committees answer to requests - it is grieving to hear of the strength and succefs of our Rivals at Cumberland.
I inclose a list of the rate of furrs to guide your endeavours in procuring as many of the Most Valuable as you can a Prime Bear is now to be rated at 5 Br. their Honours intend in future to regulate the Prem. allowed their officers by the Value of Cargo not by the Nominal Made Beav.
I shall expect you as early at Oxford as pofsible and send down the necefsary papers regulately acct. as soon as you can.
I wish you a pleasant and plentiful winter being
Dear Sir
Your very hble Servt.
Jn McNab"


" Mr Kennedy Master at Cumberland
York Factory 2nd Sept. 1805
Sir
I rec'd yours from Cumberland House and hope the men will timeously reach you and enable you to act with Vigor against your opponents with whom you will at all times endeavour to Cultivate harmony.
Swan skins are an Article of great requisition at home directions are enclosed for their preparation and preservation to which you will attend and procure as many as in your power; and keep Swans feathers from being mixt with Goose feathers in future Encourage the Trade of Bears skins a Prime Bear is rated 5 Br but rather than let the Canadians get them you will not be guided by Nominal Standard.
You will receive by these Canoes the Articles request for Cumberland, their Honors have granted you 25 £ for 3 years.
I wish you a Succefsful winter and remain
Your Sincere friend
Jn McNab."


" To Mr Swain
York Factory 2nd Sept. 1805
Sir
Their Honors say you are allow'd 45 £ for 3 years and are pleased with your exertions which I trust will be Continued the unsettled state of affairs at home prev'ts a supply of men according to the general wishes.
Bears skins and swan skins are much in request procure as many as you can the former is rated 5 Br each. I wish you a Succefsful winter being
Your sincere friend
Jn McNab."


" Mr Ja Sutherland Master at Green Lake
York Factory 2nd Sept. 1805
Sir
I rec'd your Letter and have hopes of you doing further Credit to yourself by Circumspection as Master at Green Lake
Their Honors have granted you £ 40 for 3 years Prime Bears are rated 5 Beaver and much requested as are Swan Skins you will procure as many as pofsible and prepare the Latter according to the enclosed Instructions you will be regulated by Mr Birds directions and I shall be happy in your succefs being
Your sincere friend
Jn McNab"


"To M Hallett
York Factory 2nd Sept. 1805
Sir
I am sorry to hear the Canadians have so far got the start of us towards the Mountain - trust we shall succefsfully follow them their Honors have granted you 45 £ for 3 years and I have no doubt of your Cont'd exertion.
Bears are much in Request the Prime rated 5 Br and Swans Skins are also Valuable you will procure as many as pofsible and rather than your opponents get the former you will not be tied to the Nominal Standard but act considerately.
I wish you a succefsful winter and am
Your sincere friend Jn McNab.


" To Mr Don. Sutherland
York Factory 2nd Sept. 1805
Mr Don. Sutherland
You will further these men expeditiously from OH and be guid'd by any particular direction from Mr Sinclair
I am
Your sincere friend
Jn McNab."


B.239/b/71

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