" A Diary of Occurrances at York Factory Hudsons Bay North America by Joseph Colen Resident
Commencing September 7th 1787 -"

Sept. 7 1787
" Friday Variable Breezes AM with cloudy Weather - PM heavy Rain with a fresh Gale NE -
Closed the Packet for England in the Afternoon - wind contrary and Weather too bad for Capt. Tunstall to leave the Factory. Churchill Sloop dropt down the River to the Ship. Sent George Charles to that Settlement
Several Indians took up Debt - Rec'd 30 lbs of Fish"

[Written in the margin] " NB Henry Smith a young Lad engaged by the Captain this year is sent to CR in room of Robert Tennant who is detained here by order of the Captain as we have no person here acquainted with the Shoals & Sands in this River or ? ? the setting of Buoys and Beacons"

Sept. 8
" Saturday Var. Breezes from NNE to SW part clear and part cloudy
Early this Morning the Severn Sloop dropt down the River - sent a young Cow & Bull to that Settlement -
Abt 10 AM Capt Tunstall and Mr Sam'l Hearne took their leave, Saluted them at parting. Sent 10 Men to haul the Sean, Caught 200 Tittameg and sent them to the Ship - At 5 PM the Sea Horse - Severn & Churchill Sloops were under way & soon after out of sight. Pray God send each a prosperous and speedy pafsage to their desired Ports - Smoak'd and trusted Several Natives their Winter Debts and a few sett off"

Sept. 9
" Sunday Var. Breezes from NW to N by E part clear part cloudy
A few Indians came in and Traded - Fourteen Men preparing to set off to the Woods "

Sept. 10
" Monday Breezes NW part clear and part Cloudy with Rain Hail and Snow Alternately
Sent Fourteen Men to the Woods. Two Carpenters & Afsistant fitting up Cabbins - Smith & Armourer making hinges &c - Cooper overhauling Rundlets &c from England - Many Natives sett off for their Winters Quarters "

Sept. 11
" Tuesday Var. breezes from NW to SW moderate weather AM - PM Cloudy Cold with a NE Wind
All the Natives set off to their Winters Quarters, except Two Old Men, Seven Widows and 10 Fatherlefs Children who remain dependant on the Factory
Sent Cha's Isham two Englishmen and an old Indian to Tent on the Eastern Shore while the Geese are flying. also Mefs Robinson & Cook and two others set off to Tent in the Marsh. Sent Six Men in the Long Boat to take up Buoys. the rest as yesterday. except one of the young hands who came out this year Appearing Active and ready set him to plaister and Rough ? the Buildings - In the Afternoon had the Launch taken down and stowed away"

Sept. 12
" Wednesday Var. breezes from N to E fine Weather
All hands as Yesterday except those who went for Buoys are afsisting me unpacking and stowing away Goods &c I am happy to find the Stores &c are in good condition & very few injured
The Kettles are more heavy than those of preceeding? Years? which will oblige me to sell them to the Natives to a great lofs ? -
Two Natives (Strangers) came in with a few Skins"

Sept. 13
" Thursday Breezes variable from NE to NW part clear and fine part cloudy with hail and snow -
All hands as before except two Men I sent to the Eastward Hunting Tent -
Traded with the Natives of yesterday who set off. Received 2 Geese and 3 Ducks"

Sept. 14
" Friday NW Breezes Clear Weather
The Men I sent yesterday to the Eastward returned - The rest as before except two who are scraping and cleaning Cheeses. their quality appears good, but are too old to be kept any time as at present they scarecly bear removing being so much Decayed
Secured the Long Boat for the Winter and in Order that she might be launched with ease in the spring, fixed her on logs that she lays as safe as in a dry Dock
In the Afternoon the Men came from the Woods with 10 Rafts of firewood - Rec'd 22 Geese 15 Ducks & 24 Plover"

Sept. 15
" Saturday A Stiff Breeze NW and var W by S fine and Clear AM - PM a Brisk Gale SW
All hands employed taking the Firewood up the Bank - Mefs Robinson & Cook &c came home from their Tent
Rec'd 1 Goose "

Sept. 16
" Sunday A Strong Gale NE cloudy Weather heavy rain Last night
Fourteen Men preparing to set off to the Woods tomorrow - Divine Service - "

Sept. 17
" Monday A moderate Gale Nly cloudy Weather AM - PM a Stiff Breeze NW and var. W by S
Sent 14 Men to the Woods - Tradesmen at their respective Occupations. Three at the hunting Tent, two Brewing, two under Mr Robinsons care. The rest variously engaged collecting Stones to the Bank &c - In the Afternoon sent 3 Men in a Boat to the hunting Tent"

Sept. 18
" Tuesday A sharp frost last night - Stiff breezes SW b S Cloudy AM with hail snow & rain alternately - PM blowing strong and very cold
All hands as before except Brewers who are variously employed - The men I sent yesterday to the Goose Tent returned with 40 Geese - "

Sept. 19
" Wednesday Var. breezes from NW to N b E part Clear & part Cloudy
All hands as before - sent 4 men in a Boat to the Goose with a few Articles wanted there and to bring home Geese. They crofs the River to French Creek where they leave their Boat and walk to the fourteens - as we have no Boat trustworthy to venture by water - The new one sent out by your honors in frame is not yet put together for I am apprehensive the severe Weather would damage her timbers and Boards - at present they are in a place of security & can be built fit for use in the spring
As many Casks are on the opposite shore laying scattered about sent the Cooper and two Men to collect them together in order that they may be brought to the factory when the opportunity offers
Had the Fishing Nets taken up they have been set in different places up & down the River and Creeks for two Months past and not 40 Fish caught in them
Mefs Robinson & Cook went to their Tent - Rec'd 18 Geese 28 Ducks & 8 Plover "

Sept. 20
" Thursday Wind var. from NW to S AM snow - PM a continued Rain and Sleet -
All hands at the house variously engaged. Mefs Robinson & Cook came home. In the Evening an old Indian Cheif & one native came to the factory with a few skins -
Many Snow Birds appear around us - Rec'd 2 Geese "

Sept. 21
" Friday Var. breezes all round the Compafs - Moderate - Temporate Weather AM - PM squally - towards Evening a strong Gale NE with heavy Rain Hail and Sleet
The Natives of yesterday traded Early and set off - Tradesmen as before. all spare hands collecting stones for the security of the Bank of the River"

Sept. 22
" Saturday Gale continues with hail , Rain, and sleet very cold Weather
The Men came from the Woods having left 12 floats of firewood at Dram Creek, abt 9 Miles up (on this side) the River - they were unable to bring them farther on acc't of the great fresh of Water in the River - the rest as before"

Sept. 23
" Sunday Gale continues, tho not so strong as yesterday - Cloudy and Cold Weather at times snow - Divine Service -"

Sept. 24
" Monday A Severe frost last night moderate breezes var. from NE to NW part clear & part Cloudy
Tradesmen variously engaged at their respective Occupations. Sent 16 Men in Boats to the Woods with Provisions for their use in the Winter. The rest of the Labourers Grinding Oatmeal Collecting material for the security of the Banks of the River & other necefsary duties - This morning served out to all the Men Beaver Mittens & Caps and Leather Toggies to all the new hands -"

Sept. 25
" Tuesday Breezes var from NW to NNE Clear Cold Weather
All hands as before - The Men sent yesterday to the woods returned with the Rafts of firewood left at Dram Creek on Saturday last - they say it was 2 oClock this Morning before they reached the Wooders Tent with provisions the Current in the River being so strong "

Sept. 26
" Wednesday Moderate Breezes variable from NE to E Cloudy Weather, Much snow fell this Morning
Sent three Men to the Goose Tent All the rest at the House removing Wood from the Water to the Pile
In the Evening a Bungee Native Arrived with the flesh of 3 Deer & a few skins
Received 260 lbs Venison & 30 Geese "

Sept. 27
" Thursday Ely breezes Cloudy Weather with snow
Too bad Weather to Work without Doors - All the Labourers preparing for the Woods &c Tradesmen as before Two under Mr Robinsons care -
The Bungee of yesterday traded and set off and soon after 2 Musqua Rat River Natives Arrived with a few skins which they traded and took up small debts for their Winters Hunts
Cha's Isham and hunters came home from the Eastern Shore the Geese having left that quarter
Rec'd 54 Geese 26 Ducks & 7 Plover"

Sept. 28
" Friday Var, Winds from SE to SW Cloudy Weather with Sleet
The Natives who came in yesterday set off
Tradesmen as before. Labourers variously engaged diging and making a secure foundation for Building. others securing Bank of the River &c - sent Chas Isham and two others to hunt Geese in the Marsh - and to sleep in a Tent left there. Sick as before - Rec'd 4 Geese & 3 Ducks"

Sept. 29
" Saturday Breezes vari from SSW to NE Clear sharp freezing Weather In the Evening blow'g fresh Nly
All hands as yesterday except a few I sent to the Battery ? to raise two large Guns on logs (to prevent them freezing to the Ground) in order to bring them to the Factory when the River sets fast -
Sick as before"

Sept. 30
" Sunday A fresh Gale Ely Cold frosty Weather
All the men who are to leave the Factory for the Winter making preparations for that purpose. The Hunters I sent out on Friday returned with only 14 Geese - sick as before. A Track of a Moose seen near the House, a singular circumstance for Animals of this kind to be so near us"

Oct. 1 1787
" Monday A fresh Gale Ely Cloudy frosty Weather - PM Sleet and hail
Tradesmen at their respective Occupations, Labourers removing timber near Saw Pit - Repairing Bank &c. In the Afternoon 20 Men received proper necefsaries to leave the Factory tomorrow for their Winters Quarters, Sick as before
Two Bungee Natives came in with a few Beaver Skins &c which they traded and set off immediately - and later in the Evening 2 Musqua Rat River Natives came in
Traded 66 lbs Beaver flesh & 1 Porcupine "

Oct. 2
" Tuesday var breezes from E to N Cloudy with snow - PM blowing fresh Nly -
Sent off Nichol Spence (who I appointed) Patroon - & 15 Men to the Woods. also Chas Isham, James Banks & Jas Isbester to hunt at Pennycutway River - My reasons for sending to this place - The hunters will be able to supply the Wooders with fresh Provisions - it being a fine Warren for Rabbits and the River well stored with large fish - Eight Men sent to afsist the above and bring back the Boats - Sick as before
Traded with the Musqua Rat River Natives of yesterday who set off. these people belong to the Leader who came here the 21st June last. the quantity of skins brought in by this Gang only amount to upwards of 1200 MB - as these are the cheif support of the Canadians who have Houses Errected at the Sweet Herb Lake and the top of Churchill River I gave them good encouragement in hopes to draw all their Tribe to visit YF which will be great means of driving the Pedlars from this quarter
Late in the Evening the 6 Men who afsisted the Wooders returned -"

Oct. 3
" Wednesday fresh Breezes Nly Cloudy Cold Weather freezing sharp - Much heavy Ice drove in the River -
Seven Men preparing to leave the factory for the Winter to Hunt at Ten Shilling & French Creek. the rest & sick as before - The Two Men I sent to afsist the Pennycutway Hunters not returning alarms me for their safety, the River being so full of Ice"

Oct. 4
" Thursday Breezes Var almost ar'd the Compafs clear frosty Weather
Early this Morning the River almost filled with heavy Ice but part went out with the Tide. Embraced the opportunity & sent off Mr Cook Wm Dean Wm Smith and R Meal to 10 Shilling Creek - Also Jn? Mellam, Rob Tennant & Halcro Smith to French Creek to Hunt for the Winter Season - All hands sick excepted afsisting them in Boats acrofs the River. The two Men who afsisted the Hunters to Pennycutway returned they say the River upwards was in places froze over, that they were obliged to cut their way thro & it was with much Difficulty they reached the factory "

Oct. 5
" Friday Light Airs Var. part clear & part Cloudy
The Men I sent to afsist the Hunters yesterday to Ten Shilling Creek returned. they say the Creek is set fast & the Gutway between it & the Hay Island is impafsable. The Poor Men I sent acrofs the River to land the Hunters at French Creek are not returned. I saw them this Morning cut their Boat out of the Ice & draw it on the shore - This Channel in midstream clear of Ice tho' much collected along shore very thick & rough - "

Oct. 6
" Saturday Stiff Breezes variable almost round the Compafs part Clear & part Cloudy Cold frosty Weather
Seeing several Men walking from French Creek directing? their course up the River - Launched a Boat & sent 5 Men & an old Indian to reach if pofsible the opposite shore & bring home the men - which they accomplished but were obliged to cut thro' the Ice the greatest part of their way. they are (thank God) safely arrived and say French Creek is set fast which is earlier by one Month than known for years past."

Oct. 7
" Sunday Stiff breezes Ely Cloudy weather a continual heavy rain
Divine Service -"

Oct. 8
" Monday Var. breezes unpleasant Weather at times hail, sleet & Rain alternately
Sixteen Wooders & 10 Hunters at their respective tents. Tradesmen variously employed - Abraham Melvin and William Slater have been long on the sick list are unfit for duty
Killed a Porket? Wt. 130 lbs."

Oct. 9
" Tuesday A Strong Gale. var. with drift and sleet the Ground covered with deep snow this Morning -
All hands at the Factory variously employed within the House. too bad Weather to prosecute businefs without Doors
Wm Bews added to the Sick List"

Oct. 10
" Wednesday A Strong Gale all last night which carried away the Beacon on 5 fathom Hole sand - Moderate Breezes this Day with Sleet & snow - More snow on the Ground this Morning than seen all last Season. Men as Yesterday - Began setting Rabbit snares round the Factory
Received 3 Rabbits"

Oct. 11
" Thursday AM moderate Breeze E by N Cloudy Weather. PM a Strong Gale from the same quarter with Hail, Rain & Sleet -
All Hands as Yesterday except Wm Bews who is on duty
Rec'd 12 Rabbits"

Oct. 12
" Friday All last a hurricane of Wind NE by E which continued the whole of the day variable from that quarter to N & back to E alternately with thick drift of Hail and sleet freezing sharp
The Poor Natives (Invalids) on the Plantation unable to keep their Tent covered, obliged to give them shelter within the Works. - All hands as before"

Oct. 13
" The Hurricane continued all last night which stripped the Lead off the Long Shed. it rose the Tide to a greater height by several feet than I ever saw it the water coming within part of the Stockades - it carried away the double headed Beacon - The Wind abated as the day approached blow'g a fresh Gale NW. In the Morning we found ourselves ?inded with snow above the Tops of our Doors & excefsive sharp. All hands at the Factory employed relaying? Lead &c except 3 Men who are on the Sick list
Received 5 Rabbits"

Oct. 14
" Sunday Moderate breezes NNW fine clear sharp weather -
Divine Service - The River from side to side full of heavy Ice very little open Water to be seen - "

Oct. 15
" Monday var Breezes from NNW to SW pleasant temporate Weather
Sixteen Wooders and Ten Hunters at their respective Tents. Men at the House variously engaged. Three on the Sick List - Sent one Man to hunt round the Factory very few Tracks of Game to be seen -
Rec'd 3 Partridges"

Oct. 16
" Tuesday A fresh steady breeze SSE fine Clear Sharp Weather
All hands as yesterday. killed a small Cow Wt 220 lbs
Rec'd 7 Rabbits"

Oct. 17
" Wednesday Pleasant Breeze S by W fine clear Weather thaw the whole day
All hands as before - Rec'd 11 Rabbits"

Oct. 18
" Thursday Light Airs var. from SW to N Temporate thawing Weather. the River partly clear of Ice tho' the shores & flats are loaded with it.
All hands as before - Rec'd 13 Rabbits & 3 Partridges"

Oct. 19
" Friday A Steady Easy Breeze SW part clear & part Cloudy Mild thawing Weather
As the River appeared open and seeing the Hunters on the Hay Island - Launch'd a Boat and sent four Men to Ten Shilling Creek for the produce of their Hunt. on their return they acquainted me that the S Channel & Ten Shilling Creek is fast - but that Game of all kinds are scarse - particularly Fish & Rabbits. they caught only Ten pounds of the former & 7 of the latter since they left the Factory. All the rest as before -
Received 5 Rabbits caught near the Factory"

Oct. 20
" Saturday Light Airs & Gentle breezes variable Wly Cloudy mild Weather -
All hands as before till noon -"

Oct. 21
" Sunday Moderate breezes Ely Cloudy Weather
Sent 5 Men in a Boat to 10 Shilling Creek -
Divine Service - Rec'd 9 lbs Fish & 1 Rabbit"

Oct. 22
" Monday Light Airs & Breezes var from E to WNW Cloudy Mild Weather
Saw a Smoak this morning at French Creek - Sent 4 Men in a Boat - who returned with a few Fish & Rabbits. the Hunters sent word that Game of all kinds are scarse. but that White Bears are so numerous & troublesome as to attack them & their Stage where their provisions is deposited & that one of the men had nearly been destroyed by them. the part of the River that was froze over broke up & the ice drove out with the Tide
The Men at the Factory variously engaged - Ten Hunters & 16 Wooders at their respective Tents - All the Sick on duty except Abraham Melvin -
Rec'd 38 lbs fish & 9 Rabbits"

Oct. 23
" Tuesday Light Breezes ENE Cloudy Weather with snow & sleet, towards Evening blowing with drifting Snow
All hands & Sick as before except two who are brewing"

Oct. 24
" Wednesday Fresh Breezes Ely Cloudy Weather with light Snow - towards Evening blowing strong NW -
All hands as before except the Men who were Brewing and turning Beer and securing it from the Weather. In the night a large White Bear attacked the Indian Tent on the Plantation & remain'd near the house till daylight when he was killed
In the afternoon all the Men removed into the new flanker & lodged there for the first time"

Oct. 25
" Thursday Breezes var. from NE to E by S Cloudy weather with light snow freezing sharp -
Men variously employed. had the Old Cabbins in Dwelling House taken down in order to work up the Stuff for Lower Gaurd Room of flanker. the upper floor being completely finished"

Oct. 26
" Friday A Stiff Nly freezing sharp cold & Cloudy
All hands as before - the River full of heavy Ice. "

Oct. 27
" Saturday A Moderate Gale Nly freezing cold Cloudy Weather
All hands as before till Noon -"

Oct. 28
" Sunday A Stiff Breeze Nly Clear Sharp Weather. Divine Service "

Oct. 29
" Monday Moderate Breezes N by E Clear Sharp Weather
Sixteen Wooders and Ten Hunters at their respective Tents. Men at the Factory variously engaged - Abraham Melvin very Ill
Had two Cows Killed wt 800 lbs & 2 Pigs Wt 274 -
Rec'd 8 Partridges"

Oct. 30
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. & mens employ the same"

Oct. 31
" Wednesday Fresh Breezes Nly part clear & part cloudy. In the Morning thick Rime & very Cold -
Men as before - Rec'd 2 partridges"

Nov. 1 1787
" Thursday Light Airs variable from NE to SSE temporate Cloudy Weather
Men as before - Rec'd 4 Partridges & 1 Rabbit"

Nov. 2
" Friday Light Airs SE part clear & part Cloudy Mild Weather & a great thaw
All hands as before. Rec'ed 3 Rabbits"

Nov. 3
" Saturday Light Airs variable AM in the afternoon blow'g fresh NNE Cloudy mild Weather - River nearly clear of Ice. Men as before - Rec'ed 3 Rabbits"

Nov. 4
" Sunday Gentle Breezes Nly Cloudy temporate Weather
Divine Service - Rec'ed 2 Rabbits"

Nov. 5
" Monday Sqally with snow & hail Cloudy Cold Weather
All hands variously engaged. Ten Hunters & Sixteen Wooders at their respective Tents - Abraham Melvin under Mr Robinsons care"

Nov. 6
" Tuesday Var. breezes AM Clear & Mild - PM a steady breeze Nly Cloudy & cold
All hands as before except 3 sent to hunt for Game
Rec'ed 3 Rabbits & 15 Partridges"

Nov. 7
" Wednesday AM light Airs variable almost round the Compafs with light Snow. Settled Mild Weather PM
All hands as before - Rec'd 1 Martin"

Nov. 8
" Thursday AM Mild Weather with variable Airs. PM a fresh Breeze Nly -
All Hands as before except three who are hunting
Rec'd 29 Partridges"

Nov. 9
" Friday Var. breezes from N to W b S part clear & part cloudy with Sleet - moderate Weather
All hands as before - Rec'd 14 Par's"

Nov. 10
" Saturday Breezes NW fine clear sharp Weather
All hands as before till Noon
Rec'd 2 Rabbits & 8 Part'ges"

Nov. 11
" Sunday Steady breezes SW part clear & part cloudy sharp Weather - Large fields of Ice in the River"

Nov. 12
" Monday Var Winds from N by E to SW - AM Sharp Weather PM Mild & thawing -
Sixteen Wooders amd 10 Hunters at their respectibve Tents. All hands at the Factory variously engaged. A. Melvin on Duty - Rec'd 1 Rabbit & 29 Par'ges"

Nov. 13
" Tuesday Var. Breezes from S to ESE with continual Rain & Sleet - All hands as before"

Nov. 14
" Wednesday Light Airs and Breezes variable alround the Compafs with Hail Rain & Sleet. Mild thawing Weather
All hands as before - Late in the Evening Mr Cook & one Man came from 10 Shilling Creek. they crofsed the River in a Canoe and left there Burden (240 Partridges &c) on the Bank being unable to haul the sleds on Account of the thaw & Rain - they say Rabbits & Fish are scarse and very few Partridges to be seen"

Nov. 15
" Thursday A fresh Gale NNE with drift very cold, freezing sharp
The Hunters of yesterday went to their Tent. sent four Men with ? with them for the Partridges left yesterday. the rest as before
Rec'd 240 Partridges & 2 Rabbits"

Nov. 16
" Friday Pleasant seasonable Weather with moderate breezes
All hands as on Monday - Rec'd 13 Partridges"

Nov. 17
" Saturday Variable Breezes with cloudy moderate Weather & light snow
All hands till noon as before - Rec'd 19 Partridges"

Nov. 18
" Sunday AM pleasant Sharp Weather with var breezes - PM a fresh Gale SSW Cold clear Weather
Divine Service - James Smith suddenly taken Ill - Rec'd 21 Partridges & 1 Martin'

Nov. 19
" Monday Part clear and part cloudy with moderate Breezes var. from SSW to NW - PM light Snow
All hands as on Monday last except Jas. Smith who is under Mr Robinsons care
Rec'd 23 Partridges 4 Rabbits & 1 Martin"

Nov. 20
" Tuesday Var. Breezes from NW to E Cloudy Weather snow freezing sharp
All Hands as before - Rec'd 14 Partridges"

Nov. 21
" Wednesday Ely breezes Cloudy sharp Weather.
River Ice set fast abreast the House very rough - open in places both above and below us
All hands as before - Receiv'd 20 Partridges"

Nov. 22
" Thursday Light Airs and Gentle Breezes Variable from E to SSW Cloudy Mild Weather
Part of the River Ice broke up and went out with the Tide - All hands as before - Rec'd 30 Partridges"

Nov. 23
" Friday very Mild Weather with light Airs variable from SW to NW part Clear & part cloudy
All hands as before, the River below the House clear of Ice. Rec'd 40 Partridges"

Nov. 24
" Saturday A fresh Gale Ely with drifting snow cloudy Cold Weather. towards Evening a strong Gale
All hands as before - Rec'd 16 Partridges"

Nov. 25
" Sunday Light Airs from E to E by S Cloudy Mild Weather thawing the whole day
Divine Service - Rec'd 18 Partridges"

Nov. 26
" Monday Breezes from NE to N Light snow Mild thawing Cloudy Weather
The Tradesmen at their respective Occupations - Taylors began to work for trade. Two Brewing - Sixteen Wooders & 10 Hunters at their respective Tents.
The Weather continuing so unsettled alarms me for the safety of the Wooders & Hunters at Pennycutaway who I have not heard from since the 2nd October - The River Ice appears in places to be set fast tho exceed'g rough, which on tryal is nothing but a consistancy resembling snow disolving nearly 3 feet thick with pieces of Ice forming edgeways
The snow around us is very deep & what concerns me is the old Natives hear are apprehensive for their freinds who say this will be a bad year for taking beaver. In the Evening two men came from French Creek Hunting Tent, they crofsed the River at the Mile sand -
Received 308 Partridges & 1 White Fox"

Nov. 27
" Tuesday A fresh Gale all last night NW freezing sharp this day variable breezes Almost round the Compafs part Clear part cloudy - moderate Weather - open water above and below us. All hands nearly as before. Sent off the Hunters of yesterday
Rec'd 21 Partridges & 1 Martin"

Nov. 28
" Wednesday Light Airs SW and var. NW Cloudy AM with light snow - PM more clear Mild the whole day
Sent two Men up this Island to try if pofsible to crofs the River to the Wooders - The rest as before
Rec'd 4 Partridges"

Nov. 29
" Thursday Var. breezes from SW to SSE AM Clear - PM Cloudy moderate weather
All hands as before. The Men I sent to the Woods yesterday returned. they say the River Ice is remarkably rough almost to render it impafsable - and in places open for a considerable distance. the Men at the Woods have not received the least Afsistance from the Pennycutaway River Hunters. nor heard from them since the 2nd October
Peter Clouston is sent home by the Pateroon as unfit for duty. he hath not been able to do one days work since he left the Factory - he appears to be Aged and infirm tho only engaged last year - Rec'd 6 Partridges"

Nov. 30
" Friday Breezes SE by E Mild Cloudy Weather
The Men came from Ten Shilling Creek Hunting Tent, they crofsed the River near the Hay Island says Partridges & other Game is very scarse. not a Rabbit to be got. the rest as before - Rec'd 262 Partridges & 3 Martins"

Dec. 1 1787
" Saturday Squally Weather with a thick falling Rime and cloudy
Sent off the Hunters of yesterday. one man came from French Creek Tent, as did the Pateroon and three Men from the Woods for fresh Provisions having lived on Salt ever since they left the factory - Rec'd 116 Partridges & 40 Rabbits"

Dec. 2
" Sunday Var. fresh Breezes from SE to NNE and N b W Cloudy Mild Weather with snow
The Hunter of yesterday went to his Tent - and Mr W Cook came from Ten Shill'g Creek Hunting Tent with his Bedding &c "

Dec. 3
" Monday Var. Breezes almost round the Compafs. sharp seasonable Weather
Sent off the Wooders of Saturday. One Man accompanied them to their Tent - who has orders to proceed on with another to Pennycuttaway tomorrow to enquire after the Hunters there - Nine Hunters at their respective Tents - Wooders as before. The men at the Factory variously engaged. Peter Clouston unfit for Duty - Rec'd 10 Partridges"

Dec. 4
" Tuesday Fresh Breezes SSW Sharp clear Weather - River entirely froze over
Men at the House as before - Robert Tennant came to the Factory with his Bedding from French Creek in order to Tent at the back of this Island - Chas Isham & one Man came from Pennycutway River hunting Tent - he says the River upwards has the Appearance of a Mountainous Country coverd with snow - very difficult to pafs over, owing to the Breaking up of the River Ice after it froze over and forced Peice on peice to a great height with much open Water in places. that he caught some? Hundred Weight of Fish & a few Rabbits - the latter were spoilt by the Mild Warm Weather - He was obliged to leave a large Quantity behind lately killed. the road being bad & snow deeper than he ever before saw it.
Rec'd 2 R. Foxes 72 Martins 5 1/2 ? Beaver & 60 Rabbits"

Dec. 5
" Wednesday Fresh Breezes Variable Almost round the Compafs. Moderate cloudy Weather - All hands as before
Rec'd 7 Part'ges"

Dec. 6
" Thursday Stiff Breezes ? from NNE to NW Cloudy drifting Weather PM
Cha's Isham &c set off to his Tent. I gave orders for him to take men from the Woods to afsist home with Provisions. Sent Robert Tennant to Tent at the back of this Island - the sick as before"

Dec. 7
" Friday Light Airs and moderate breezes NE Cloudy thick Rimy Weather very Mild
All hands as before. In the Afternoon John Mellam and Halcro Smith came from French Creek Hunting Tent the latter having the misfortune to be shot thro' the hand by a setting Gun this Morning he came for Mr R. Afsistance
Rec'd 58 Martin Skins 1 Jackash 2 Foxes & 170 Partridges"

Dec. 8
" Saturday Last night a fresh Gale NE Light Airs all this day from the same quarter - cloudy Mild Weather
One man came from Ten Shilling Creek and one from the Back of this Island - had the Victualling Hole opened on the River Ice. laid Salt Provisions therein to fresh. The rest of the Men as before
Rec'd 136 Partridges 1 Fox & 1 Martin"

Dec. 9
" Sunday Moderate steady Breezes NE Cloudy and thick Rime AM near clear PM. All the Hunters set off to their respective Tents - Divine Service -
Receiv'd 25 Partridges & traded 2 pr Snow Shoes"

Dec. 10
" Monday Cloudy Weather with snow. Breezes Nly?
Sixteen Wooders & 8 Hunters at their respective Tents - Tradesmen & others at the Factory variously engaged - Peter Clouston, H. Smith & J. Grimbester in the Sick list. In the Afternoon two families of Natives came in paid their & Traded"

Dec. 11
" Tuesday Moderate Breezes NW Seasonable clear Weath.
All hands and sick as yesterday
In the Evening Cha's Isham and two Tentmates came home having left 6 Days of Provisions of Fish with the Wooders - The Quantity of Country Provisions killed by all the Hunters is but small, which will make this an expensive Winter tho' the small Furrs procured at each Tent is greater than known for many years
Rec'd 60 lbs Fish 9 Rabbits - 16 Partridges - the flesh of 2 Beaver (30 lbs) 9 Martin Skins & 1 Quiekquahatch"

Dec. 12
" Wednesday Light Airs and Breezes SE by E part clear and part cloudy - very Rimy
All hands as before - The Trees & Willows are so loaded with Ice that it is difficult to pafs thro' the Woods. Many Trees are prefsed down with the weight thereon. Three Englishmen and all the Indians were sent out this day to Hunt but not a partridge killed the scarcity is so great"

Dec. 13
" Thursday Moderate breezes Nly Cold cloudy Weather with thick Rime
All hands & sick as before except the Cooper who is on duty - Sent Indians to the back of this Island to try for Partridges. Rec'd 39"

Dec. 14
" Friday Breezes Nly Cloudy very sharp weather.
Early this Morning I set off to the Woods and took J. Hall with me - I am pleased to see the large quantity of firewood that is cut & collected together - Gave Directions for their future procedure in cutting down Timber &c &c
Afterwards returned to the Factory. all the sick as before except the Man who was shot at the setting Guns on Duty - Two Men went to afsist at French Creek Hunting Tent
Rec'd 1 Fox & 19 Partridges"

Dec. 15
" Saturday Breezes Wly & var. Northly sharp Clear Weath.
All hands as before - One Man came from each of the Hunting Tents.
Rec'd 180 Partridges 7 Foxes & 1 Martin"

Dec. 16
" Sunday AM Wind NW Clear very sharp Weather PM var. breezes almost round the compafs
The Hunters of yesterday went to their respective Tents
Divine Service "

Dec. 17
" Monday Clear Sharp Weather with NW breezes -
57 Wooders & 7 Hunters at their respective Tents. Tradesmen & others at the House variously employed
Rec'd 40 Partridges"

Dec. 18
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as yesterday
Mens employ the same except James Hall who accompanied me to look at some timber peices reported to be growing near 10 Shilling Creek - the few there are but small peices that woud not repay the trouble of sending men to cut them down
Rec'd 8 Partridges"

Dec. 19
" Wednesday Breezes SW moderate cloudy weather
All hands as before - Rec'd 80 Partridges"

Dec. 20
" Thursday Sharp clear weather with var. Breezes from NE to NW
All hands as before - I have the satisfaction of seeing finished the Mens Flanker replete with conveniences. the Cabbins are roomy Bed Places for 50 Men more ? than either Cheif or Officer for upwards of 12 months after my Arrival in this Country. It gives me pleasure to here the Old Servants declare they have now better accomodations in their Appartments than any since they resided in Hudson Bay - Sent Chas Isham to the Back of this Island - Rec'd 61 Partridges"

Dec. 21
" Friday A Brisk Gale SE sharp clear Weather
All the men came from the Woods - as did the Hunters from 10 Shilling Creek - The rest as before
Rec'd 128 Partridges"

Dec. 22
" Saturday A strong Gale SE sharp Weather
Sent the Hunters who came home Yesterday (from Ten Shilling Creek) for the Tent Leather & other things - Tradesmen variously engaged. Labourers cutting Firewood, opening Victualling & Watering Hole - till noon, Afterwards receiving Provisions - Chas Isham came home as did all the Hunters from the Eastward
Rec'd 328 Partridges - & 1 Martin"

Dec. 23
" Sunday Light Airs from SW to w Cloudy temporately Mild Weather
Divine Service - Late in the Evening a large pack? of Wolves surrounded the Factory
Rec'd 44 Partridges"

Dec. 24
" Monday Light Airs from W to NW Mild Clear Weather
Tradesmen variously employed collecting their Tools together? and cleaning Work Shops &c Labourers cutting Firewood
Rec'd 41 Partridges & killed 1 Wolf"

Dec. 25
" Tuesday Fresh Breezes from NW to SE moderate Clear Weather
Divine Service"

Dec. 26
" Wednesday Light Airs & Breezes NW - AM clear & sharp PM cloudy & moderate -
All the Men at their Holliday diversions"

Dec. 27
" Thursday A Steady Wind NE Cloudy Weather with light snow
Men as before - Rec'd 1 Fox"

Dec. 28
" Friday A Fresh Gale Nly Cloudy Weather at times Sun.
Men as before - Rec'd 1 Fox"

Dec. 29
" Saturday A Stiff Breeze Nly Cloudy sharp Weather
Sent most of the Men with the timber sled to bring home the Boat left acrofs the River last October - James Hall & one Man to look at some Timber Trees growing at the River Fourteens. In the Evening two Natives with their wifes arrived with four Sleds of Furrs. they came for Articles of Trading Goods for themselves & Freinds whom they left a great Distance off - & say they were thirty five nights on their Journey to the Factory
Received 15 Partridges"

Dec. 30
" Sunday Wind & Weather as Yesterday
Natives too intent on drinking to Trade only for a supply of liquor"

Dec. 31
" Monday A fresh Gale part of the day and part a stiff Breeze Nly Clear sharp Weather
Sent most of the Men to 10 Shilling Creek for the Canoe & other things left by the Hunters
Traded with the Natives of Saturday cheifly Prime Furrs"

Jan. 1 1788
" Tuesday A Brisk Nly very sharp drifting cloudy Weath.
Men finished their Holliday diversion. Weather too bad for Natives to set off"

Jan. 2
" Wednesday A Stiff Breeze Nly severe part clear and part cloudy weather
The Natives who came in on Saturday set off. Sent two Men to the Woods and Chas Isham to the Back of this Island. All the rest Grinding Oatmeal and preparing to leave the factory"

Jan. 3
" Thursday Breezes NW Cold Cloudy Weather
Sent off five Men to hunt on the Eastern Shore. the rest preparing to leave the Factory tomorrow"

Jan. 4
" Friday Breezes NW fine clear seasonable Weather
Sent one Man to join the hunters on the Eastern shore. Also Twenty Seven Men to the Woods - Six of whom are to prepare & saw Timber for Building - the remaining at the Factory are 9 persons (Officers included) amongst those are Two Taylors working for Trade - Peter Clouston an old infirm Man, the rest are kept to hunt on this Island &c
Rec'd 19 Partridges"

Jan. 5
" Saturday Stiff Breezes NW Cloudy sharp weather
One Man came from the Woods with his Bedding &c ? left there before Christmas in order to go to a Hunting Tent with Chas Isham next week. All the rest as before except Chas Isham who is afsisting me Drying Stretching & Tying up Martin Skins. Rec'd 11 Partridges "

Jan. 6
" Sunday Breezes W b S Clear sharp Weather
Mefs Isham & Cook set off towards Flambro' House along the Back of this Island to examine for Game and to see if Nelson River is set fast"

Jan. 7
" Monday Var. Breezes from W b N to S b W Clear seasonable Weather
Twenty Six Men at the Woods one cutting Fire wood, the rest Hunting &c Mefs Isham & Cook returned say Nelson River is set fast near Flambro' House but that very few Tracks of Game to be seen"

Jan. 8
" Tuesday A Steady Breeze N b W part clear and part cloudy seasonable weather
All hands as yesterday except two I sent to afsist hauling on sleds two old Natives who are Cripples to their Tent. the whole Body twenty four in Number pitched away in this Morning to the Back of this Island.
Agreed with two Indians to go with a packet to Churchill prepared Letters & closed the same in order to send off tomorrow"

Jan. 9
" Wednesday Breezes NW Cloudy sharp weather
Sent off two Natives with a Packet to Churchill and soon after an Indian & family came in with a few Skins. part he traded and set off to the Tent. The Men as before. Rec'd 5 Partridges"

Jan. 10
" Thursday Light Airs Sly part clear and part cloudy sharp Weather All hands as before"

Jan. 11
" Friday AM fresh Breezes SW fine pleasant weather PM light Airs
All hands as before " [5 lines crossed out]

Jan. 12
" Saturday A stiff Breeze NW Cold Cloudy Weather PM variable Easterly
All Hands as before. Nine Men came from the Woods for Fresh Provisions for all hands. James Hall accompanied them agreeable to order for the size and scantlings of Timber for Building. Two Hunters came from the Eastern Shore with only 210 Partridges being the Whole killed by 6 Hunters in 11 Days"

Jan. 13
" Sunday Fresh Breezes Westly Clear sharp Weather
Mefs Isham & Cook set off to Ship River to examine that quarter for Partridges - The Hunters of Yesterday went to their Tent. The Native & family who arrived the 9th came to the Factory late in the Evening & packed up his things in order to set off tomorrow
Engaged greatest part of this Day in serving out necefsaries for the Wooders &c &c"

Jan. 14
" Monday Light Breezes W b S Clear Sharp Weath.
Sent off the Wooders & Sawyers of Saturday to their Tent. the rest as before The Native mentioned yesterday set off to join a large Party with whom he has been Tenting ever since he left this place last fall. I requested him to bring as many Natives as pofsible early in the spring to Hunt Geese as our stock of Provisions run exceedingly low - Rec'd 7 Partridges"

Jan. 15
" TuesdayWind and Weather as Yesterday
Mens Employ the same - Rec'd 6 Partridges"

Jan. 16
" Wednesday Early AM Breezes WSW Cloudy Cold Weather with thick Rime, afterwards Light Airs Westly Clear & sharp
Men as before - Rec'd 30 Partridges"

Jan. 17
" Thursday Moderate Breezes NNW Thick Rime & Cold -
All hands as before except the few at the Factory who are opening and Cleaning Victualling Hole and putting Salt provisions therein"

Jan. 18
" Friday Breezes WSW and W by S Clear fine Weather (Early in this Morning thick Rime)
All hands as on Monday. Mr Cook & one Man came from Ship River with 130 Partridges. say's game is scarse in that Quarter. Rec'd 4 Partridges"

Jan. 19
" Saturday A Fresh Gale SW much drift very cold and Cloudy
All hands as before, in the Afternoon two Hunters came from the Eastern Shore Hunting Tent with only 100 Partridges - Ordered four Men to prepare to set off to Hunt at Stoney Rivers tomorrow and there to join Chas Isham at Ship River with whom I send an Indian Lad a good Hunter having engaged him this day for that purpose
Rec'd 1 Martin"

Jan. 20
" Sunday Light Breezes Wly fine clear Weather PM Variable Breeze Nly
Sent off the Hunters as mentioned yesterday also three Men to afsist them in removing their Tents &c."

Jan. 21
" Monday A fresh Gale Nly Cloudy drifting Weather
Twenty Six Men at the Woods Eight Hunters to the Eastw'd. Three Men afsisting the Above. the remaining Five at the House variously engaged - In the Evening two Natives arrived with a Packet from Churchill"

Jan. 22
" Tuesday A Stiff Breeze Nly Cloudy Weather
Mefs Robinson & Cook went to the Woods with Letters bro't from Churchill for the Men
The Two Natives who came in Yesterday went to the Indian Tent at the Back of this Island"

Jan. 23
" Wednesday A Stiff Breeze S b W part clear & part cloudy PM much drift
All hands as before. Prepared Letters for Churchill to send off tomorrow - the Natives came to the Back of this Island for that purpose - Mefs Robinson & Cook came from the Woods"

Jan. 24
" Thursday Fine Clear Weather with light Airs SW and var to NW
Sent off the Churchill Natives with Letters &c for that Settlement. All hands as before In this Afternoon the Men I sent on Sunday to afsist the Hunters returned with 150 Partridges from Ship River "

Jan. 25
" Friday Var. light Airs Almost round the Compafs mild Weather
Hands as before except those at the House opening the Victualling Hole, Provisions taken out and Salt laid therein to Fresh"

Jan. 26
" Saturday Light Airs and Breezes SE part clear & part cloudy Mild Weather towards Evening fresh Breezes Nly
Ten Men came from the Woods for Provisions - One came from Stoney Rivers Hunting Tent with only 50 Partridges as did Charles Isham with 150 from Ship River - I cannot say too much in favor of the latter for his great exertions during the scarcity of Partridges. he has been out but 12 Days & klled 430 which is nearly double all the rest together killed since Christmas"

Jan. 27
" Sunday A Moderate Gale NW and variable Nly Cloudy Weather
Charles Isham and the Hunters of Yesterday set off to their respective Tents. I sent a Man with the former to attend the Dogs & Sleds to and from the Factory to prevent the Hunters detention from their duties - Engaged greatest part of this day serving out necefsaries to the Wooders &c"

Jan. 28
" Monday A Stiff Breeze AM Nly afterwards more moderate part clear & part cloudy
Sent off the Wooders of Saturday to there Tent. to these I join the Taylors &c so that I have now 28 Men at the Woods. 9 Hunters at their respective Tents - & 5 at the Factory variously engaged"

Jan. 29
" Tuesday A Stiff Breeze SW Clear sharp weather
All hands as before - except those at the House who are Hunting. Mr Robinson went to look out a place to Tent on the Back of this Island. Robt. Sinclair, one of the Sawyers came from the Woods on account of a dispute (as he says) with his Tent Mates
Received 21 Partridges"

Jan. 30
" Wednesday Var Breezes all round the Compafs Moderate cloudy Weather, late in the Evening blowing a Strong Gale NW with snow
Early this Morning I sent Robt Sinclair to the Woods to afsist at the large Sled. Mr Cook also went to place another, with the Sawyers in his room -
The rest of the Men as before - Mr Robinson and one Man went to errect a Tent"

Jan. 31
" Thursday A fresh Breeze WNW Sharp Clear Weather
Mr Robinson set off to Tent at the Back of this Island near the Natives - Sent one Man to look after traps & Guns acrofs the River. The rest as before "

Feb. 1 1788
" Friday A Strong Gale Nly Cloudy Drifting Weather
All hands as before"

Feb. 2
" Saturday A Stiff Breeze NNW part clear & part Cloudy with drifting Cold Weather
All hands as before. The two Natives I sent to Churchill the 9 Ult. returned with letters and Trading Goods &c from that Settlement. Paid them for their Journey. afterwards they went to the Back of this Island
Traded 2 pr Snow Shoes"

Feb. 3
" Sunday Var. Breezes from NNW to NE by E & Ely Moderately mild & Clear. Afterwards Severe and Cloudy
One Man came from the Stoney Rivers & two from Ship River Hunting Tent. the quantity of Partridges killed this Week at both Tents are but 270 - Chas Isham sent word that the Game had left the quarter he is Hunting and that he intends to remove 12 Miles farther to the Eastward - Rec'd 4 Foxes"

Feb. 4
" Monday Breezes W by S Clear Sharp Weather
The Hunters of Yesterday set off to their Tents - Twenty Eight Men at the Woods. Nine Hunting on the Eastern Shore & one on this Island - the remaining four (self Included) at the House variously engaged - Rec'd 1 Fox & 19 Partridges"

Feb. 5
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday
Mens employ the same. All at the House are Hunting myself excepted. Rec'd 66 Partridges"

Feb. 6
" Wednesday Early AM Wind & Weather as Yesterday. Afterwards a fresh Gale var. from SW to N & N by E drifting Cloudy Cold Weather
All hands as before - Rec'd 15 Partridges"

Feb. 7
" Thursday Stiff Breezes Wly Severe Clear Weather
All hands as before - those at the House Grinding Oatmeal &c"

Feb. 8
" Friday Breezes Wly Clear Sharp Weather
Men as before except those at the House who are opening Victualling Hole taking out & putting Provisions therein. In the Evening the Indians &c I sent with a Packet to Severn the 30th July last returned to this Factory with only 10 MB. the detaining of a Native so long at that Settlement has deprived the Hon'ble Company of a useful Hunter during the best Season of procuring Furrs"

Feb. 9
" Saturday Breezes SW Clear Sharp Weather
All hands as before - Ten Men came from the Woods for Provisions. they bro't home James Smith Taylor who is unable to walk having violent Rheumatic Pains in his legs. also John Mellam came home from Stoney Rivers very Ill. Two Men came from Ship River Hunting Tent as did Mr Robinson from the Back of this Island. the small quantity? of Partridges killed this Week am't but to 254 - The Natives who came in Yesterday went to the Indian Tent - Rec'd 2 Foxes & 2 Martins & Traded 3 pr Snow Shoes"

Feb. 10
" Sunday Nly Breezes Cloudy with light Snow
Mr Robinson went to his Tent - Too thick & bad Weather for Hunters to Crofs the River - Late in the Evening three Natives came in with a few Furrs. they slept 7 Nights on their Journey to the Factory"

Feb. 11
" Monday AM Mild Cloudy Weather with NE Breezes. Afterw'ds Cold with Drifting Snow
Sent off the Wooders & Hunters to their respective Tents except Alex Flett who strained his foot - J. Smith and John Mellam Ill. two Hunting the other Person & self variously engaged. Part Traded with the Natives of Yesterday who set off to the Indian Tent - & trusted small debt to the two Natives &c who came in last Friday, they soon after set off with their families to Hunt for small Furrs. Rec'd 4 Partridges"

Feb. 12
" Tuesday Var. Breezes Clear fine Weather AM Sharp PM Mild
Men as before, those at the House Hunting Self & Sick excepted. The Natives came from the Tent & finished Trade
Rec'd 19 Partridges"

Feb. 13
" Wednesday Breezes Var. NWly Clear sharp Weather
Men and Sick as before - In Justice to Mr Wm Cook whose daily exertions in hunting during the scarcity of Partridges I must say is very meritorious & deserves my thanks
Charles Isham came home from Ship River says no Partridges are to be seen in that quarter but that they are collecting near the Fourteens & Crofs Creek feeding places - intend to hunt there for a few days. the Men who were with him are coming here for that purpose - one man came from the Woods with Tho's Sinclair who is bruised by a Stick falling on him
Rec'd 37 Partridges & 1 Wolf"

Feb. 14
" Thursday Stiff Breeze SW Cloudy Drifting Weather with light Snow
All hands & Sick as before. The Natives who came in on Sunday set off to join their freinds. Rec'd 22 Part'ges"

Feb. 15
" Friday Stiff Breezes Nly & var. W part Clear part Cloudy with Drift
The two Men who came from the Woods on Wednesday went to their Tent. the rest as before"

Feb. 16
" Saturday Breezes NE part Clear and part Cloudy drifting Weather
Sent two Men with Provisions to Stoney Rivers & to bring home Partridges. soon after one Man arrived from that Tent. & three from Ship River with their Bedding. James Hall came from the Woods. sick & others as before
Rec'd 213 Partridges & 2 Red foxes"

Feb. 17
" Sunday Stiff Breezes Nly part clear and part Cloudy with Drift
The Men I sent Yesterday to Stoney Rivers returned - and the Hunters who came from Ship River set off to Hunt & Tent at Crofs Creek - James Hall went to the Woods"

Feb. 18
" Monday Stiff Breezes Nly Clear Sharp Weather
Twenty Seven Men at the Woods. Seven Hunters to the Eastward and Mr Robinson at his Tent on the Back of this Island. Mr William Cook & one Man set off to hunt for a few days up the River. as is Chas Isham to the Marsh. 3 Sick Men with myself at the Factory"

Feb. 19
" Tuesday A Strong Gale all last night N b W which continued till Noon. afterwards moderate breezes Clear Sharp Weather and Drifting near the Ground
All hands as before except John Mellam & Alex Flett who are on duty. James Smith continues very Ill. An Indian Cheif two Men & ? Woman Arrived Appearantly well loaded with Furrs. they traded a few and afterwards set off to the Tent at the Back of this Island
Rec'd 10 Partridges"

Feb. 20
" Wednesday Light Airs NW pleasant Clear Weather
All hands as before - the natives came to the House and traded a few skins for a supply of liquor and afterwards went to the Tent -
Mr Cook &c who set off Hunting on Monday last returned - Chas Isham says the Snow is deeper than he ever before saw it - that the Willows (which in Summer are very high) are entirely covered and that the Marshes hath the appearance of extensive Plains. scarsely a Tree or Bush to shelter a Partridge
Rec'd 85 Part'gs & 2 Rabbits"

Feb. 21
" Thursday Light Airs variable from NW to E b N fine pleasant Weather
All hands as before - James Smith able to sit down to his Work, tho' unable to walk - Mefs Isham & Cook afsisting me sorting Gun Flints for Inland. I am sorry those sent out last year prove so bad, nearly one half are obliged to be returned as unfit for trade - the Natives are more particular in the choice of Gun Flints than any other article, they say the support of themselves & families - as well as their Lives often depend on a Flint - they have produced those traded with the Canadians - which are Excellent Black & Clear and will give fire so long as a bit remains of them. - Rec'd 7 Partridges"

Feb. 22
" Friday Var. Moderate Breezes AM fine pleasant Weather - PM a Gale of Wind Sly part clear part Cloudy Mild & thawing
All hands as before except myself very Ill. had the Victualling Hole opened provisions taken out and Salt laid therein to fresh. not hearing from Mr Robinson for a long time sent Mr Cook to his Tent with a few necefsaries
Rec'd 2 Partridges"

Feb. 23
" Saturday Stiff Breezes Sly Cloudy Mild Weather with Snow - PM more Clear with a variable Wind Nly
All hands as before - Eleven men came from the Woods for Provisions - as did one Man from each of the Hunting Tents (to the Eastward) - Also Mr Robinson who returned to his Tent - The Natives who came in finished Trade packed up their Goods in order to set off tomorrow
Rec'd 228 Partridges"

Feb. 24
" Sunday Light Airs & Breezes var. from N to W & W b S Mild thawing Weather
The Natives mentioned Yesterday set off to join their Freinds who are hunting near the Sweet Herb Lake
The Hunters went to their respective Tents. as did one Man to the Woods with a Pit Saw'

Feb. 25
" Monday NW breezes Sharp Clear Weather
The Men who came on Saturday for Provisions set off, Twenty one Wooders & 6 Sawyers at their respective Tents. Seven Hunters to the Eastward - Mr Robinson at a Tent on this Island. rest Hunting round Factory except myself two Sick Men & a Cook. - Received 41 Partridges"

Feb. 26
" Tuesday AM Breezes NW Clear Sharp Weather. PM more moderate with light Airs Westerly
This Morning an Indian came to the House to acquaint me their Leader who left the Factory on Sunday lay very Ill not far distant unable to pursue his Journey. Took Mr Cook and a few necefsaries with me to see him. he found great releif after I bled him - I left such Medicines as I judged proper for his disorder, which is that of the pleurisy. The rest of the Men as before - Rec'd 12 Partridges"

Feb. 27
" Wednesday Stiff Breezes NW Clear Sharp Weather
Sent Mefs Isham & Cook to the sick Native (mentioned yesterday) with Medicines - they say he was so far recovered as to pursue his journey & set forward during their stay at his hut.
The rest as before Sick Men on duty. Rec'd 9 Partridges"

Feb. 28
" Thursday Breezes NW Thick Rime this Morning and hazy the whole day tho' Sun shone Bright. Cold Weather
Sent Mefs Isham & Cook to the Woods to examine the quantity of timber Sawed as well as Firewood hauld to the Bank - their Account is favorable, in consequence the Sawyers are ordered to bring home their Bedding and Tools on Saturday next. the rest as before - Rec'd 8 Partridges"

Feb. 29
" Friday AM light Airs SW Clear sharp Weather. PM variable Do. all round the Compafs & Mild
All hands as before - Rec'd 17 Partridges"

Mar. 1 1788
" Saturday Light Airs variable temporately mild part Clear & part Cloudy
Seven Men came from the Woods with their Bedding &c Nichol Spence Pateroon accompanied them to receive Orders for his future procedure - One Man came from each of the Hunting Tents on the Eastern Shore with 170 Partridges & Mr Robinson sent home 18 & 2 Rabbits - Rest of the Men as before - In the Evening Three Natives who set off the 11th Ult. came to the House with a few Furrs.
Rec'd 1 Red Fox 2 Martins and 15 Partridges from Factory Hunters"

Mar. 2
" Sunday Var. light Airs NE to ESE fine clear Weather
Natives of Yesterday set off to join their families after receiving a little Oatmeal &c as did the Patroon & Hunters to their respective Tents - Divine Service -
A Native & two Youths came to the Indian Tent for the Goose Hunt Season - Rec'd 2 Partridges"

Mar. 3
" Monday Var. Light Airs Mild thawing Weather part Clear and part Cloudy
Twenty Men at the Woods - Seven Hunters to the Eastw'd. Mr Robinson at a Tent on this Island. Three Carpenters & two pair of Sawyers preparing for Building - One Taylor at work for Trade - Armourer examining & Cleaning Guns. Writing, Hunting, and sorting Stores &c employ'd the rest -
Rec'd 30 Partgs"

Mar. 4
" Tuesday Light Airs SE clear fine mild thawing Weath.
All hands as before except Mr Robinson who came to the Factory with his bedding &c - as did Peter Clouston from the Woods unfit for duty.
Reced 50 Part'gs from C.I."

Mar. 5
" Wednesday Light Airs variable alround the Compafs fine pleasant Weather.
All hands as before - Cleared away Snow on Plantation for framing of Building - In the afternoon Willm Sabbiston and B. Goudy and an Indian Youth arrived with a packet from Severn. - Reced 15 Partridges & 12 Rabbits."

Mar. 6
" Thursday Stiff breezes NW b N Cold Cloudy Weather at times snow
All hands as before - Sent Mr Cook and one Man to the Woods with Letters. Began framing Building - Two on the Sick list and the Indian Lad snow Blind.
Rec'd 39 Partridges & 3 Rabbits."

Mar. 7
" Friday Var. Breezes Cloudy Weather with Snow
All hands and Sick as before. Wm Bews &c came from the Woods to prepare things for Severn - Rec'd 3 Partridges"

Mar. 8
" Sunday Breezes NW Cloudy Mild Weather
All hands as before - Three Hunters came home from the Eastward as did Five Men from the Woods - Had the Victualling Hole opened provisions taken out & Salt laid therein to Fresh
Rec'd 324 Partgs 6 Rabbits 4 Martins & 1 Fox"

Mar. 9
" Sunday Breezes NE Cloudy Weather
The Hunters of yesterday went to their Tent - Divine Service "

Mar. 10
" Monday Wind and Weather as Yesterday till PM when it became variable alround the Compafs and Squally
Sent off the Wooders of Saturday with orders for the whole to bring home their Bedding &c next Saturday
Eighteen Men at the Woods - Six Hunters on the Eastern Shore. All the Tradesmen variously engaged preparing for Building, Working for Trade, Getting ready Articles for Severn. Packd up Goods & Closed the Packet for that Settlement"

Mar. 11
" Tuesday Squally Winds Nly Cloudy Weather & very much snow
Too bad Weather for Packet Men to set off or Carpenters &c to Work without Doors who are variously engaged in the House. the Rest as before"

Mar. 12
" Wednesday Easy Breezes Ely early AM Cloudy with light Snow afterwards fine and Clear towards Evening blowing strong from the same quarter
Too thick Weather Early in the Morning for Packet Men to set off they left their Bedding &c so far off as Ship River where they are obliged to lodge the first night. The rest of Men as before"

Mar. 13
" Thursday A Strong Gale Ely part clear & part Cloudy Cold Weather
All Hands as on Tuesday. Rec'd 16 Rabbits & 27 Partridges from 2 Indian Lads I engaged to hunt for me - And in the Evening an old Native brot in a small deer Wt 60 lbs"

Mar. 14
" Friday Breezes Ely part clear & part cloudy
All hands as before - Abt 10 AM Beaky Goudy & Indian Lad set off on their return to Severn - W. Sabeston remains at the Factory till the Arrival of the Men from Inland"

Mar. 15
" Saturday Breezes Nly fine clear Weather
All hands nearly as on Monday till noon All the men came from the Woods with their Bedding. they were obliged to leave their Tents behind. The patroon (Nich'l Spence) tells me there is a large Winter Firewood hauled to the Bank & nearly double that quantity collected together for another Season. this I can mention with certainty. Am sorry I was so misled into an Error last year when I acquainted your Honors the quantity of Firewood instead of being two Years Wood cut down there was not sufficient to last one Month. I have discovered much of the last patroons (Henry Garrock) deception as to convince me a bad Man was too long continued in this Service
One Man came from Crofs Creek Hunting Tent with only 60 Partgs being the whole killed this Week by them
Rec'd 2 Martins"

Mar. 16
" Sunday A Fresh Breeze Var. from N b E to SE & S part Clear & part Cloudy
One Man came from Stoney Rivers Hunting Tent with only 15 Partridges being the whole killed by 3 Mem. All the Men Baking Bread Cleaning Cabbins &c
Rec'd 3 Martins"

Mar. 17
" Monday A Strong Gale N b W Cloudy Cold Weather
All the Tradesmen variously engaged in their respective Occupations. Labourers variously employed Clear'g away Snow from Platforms & doing other necefsary duties. Too bad Weather for Hunters to set off - Had the Cellar overhauled am sorry to find most of the Porter froze solid and two of the Casks burst tho' none lost"

Mar. 18
" Tuesday Nly Breezes very sharp clear Weather
Tradesmen as before. Labourers Wheeling (from within the Stockades) Snow, which is deeper on the Ground than before known by the Oldest Servant at this place. Sent off the Hunter (who came home on Sunday) to his Tent. Two Men Ill. Rec'd 2 Rabbits & 5 Partridges"

Mar. 19
" Wednesday Early AM Nly Breezes very sharp. Afterw'ds SSE fine & Clear Weather
All hands as before - Rec'd 20 Partridges"

Mar. 20
" Thursday Wind variable AM thick & cloudy PM a strong Gale SE with Snow & Drift
Too bad Weather for men to Work without - variously employed within the House & Shops. Labourers preparing for Sinnet and doing other duties for Inland. Received 53 Partridges and 3 Rabbits from Indian youths"

Mar. 21
" Friday A Stiff Breeze Nly Clear Sharp Weather
Divine Service for the day"

Mar. 22
" Saturday Wind and Weather as Yesterday
Men as on Monday - One Man came from Crofs Creek Hunting Tent with 50 Partridges as did one Man from Stony Rivers with only 13 - The Indian Lads I engaged have been succefsful to the Northward having brot in this day 100 Partridges & 3 Rabbits - Rec'd 2 Martins"

Mar. 23
" Sunday Early AM fine clear Weather. afterw'ds became Var. and PM a Strong Gale SW b W & Sly Drifting & Cold
The Hunters of Yesterday set off - Sent Magnus Flett to examine the Shallop on the Eastern Shore. Sent 3 Men for Tents left at the Woods, also two Men to hunt for Partridges up the River
The three Natives & families I sent off Trapping the 11th Ult. returned - and soon after two families arrived for the Goose Hunt - they all paid their Debt & Traded - afterwards went to the Indian Tent - One of them paid part of a Debt he owed at Severn (16 Beaver)"

Mar. 24
" Monday A Strong Gale Nly with much Drift. middle part of the day Clear remainder Cloudy & Cold
Tradesmen variously engaged at their respective Occupations - Labourers wheeling Snow from within the Works to the Banks of the River - Six Hunters to the Eastward and Shipwright - Mefs Isham & Cook afsisting me Stretching Tying & sorting Skins - The Men I sent Yesterday to the Woods for Tent Leather returned - as did the Hunters I sent up the River with only 5 Rabbits & 2 Partridges - No Geese to be seen - One Man Ill"

Mar. 25
" Tuesday A fresh Breeze NW Cloudy & Cold AM Afterwards fine & pleasant
All hands as before. The three Hunters came from Stony Rivers with their Bedding Tent Leather &c no Game stirring in that Quarter
Magnus Flett who I sent to survey the Shallop on the Eastern Shore returned & reported that she can be made a useful Vefsel with small expence, that all her Timbers are sound but the seams of some of her lower plank are decayed - that it will be attended with much trouble to get her off. be that as it may I hope to have her riding in the River by the latter end of this Fall
An old Native (Woman) Cripple died suddenly last night"

Mar. 26
" Wednesday Light breezes variable from W b N to SSW & Sly Cloudy AM Afterwards Clear
All hands as before except the Hunters of Yesterday who are preparing Sinnet & Tobacco Pegs? for Inland - The Englishmen hath been out this whole day Hunting for Game and travalld from the Marsh many Miles up the North River & acrofs this Island and did not see a Partridge
Sent two native Men & their families 7 in all to Hunt up this River - Rec'd 1 Fox"

Mar. 27
" Thursday Stiff Breezes Nly Cloudy drifting & Snow - at times very Squally & unpleasant Cold Weather PM A Steady Strong Gale
All Hands as before till Breakfast when the weather became so boisterous as to prevent Duty without - All the Labourers variously employed in the House Picking Oakum, mak'g? Foxes? for Deer Snares - Sinnet for Inland & Grinding Oatmeal - Tradesmen engaged in their respective Shops - Rec'd 20 partridges from Indians"

Mar. 28
" Friday Breezes NE clear Cold Weather
All hands as on Wednesday except having the victualling opened - Rec'd 20 partridges"

Mar. 29
" Saturday Early AM Breezes Sly. Cloudy afterw'ds it became Squally with thick Snow & PM var. strong Gales almost round the Compafs - boisterous & drifting towards Evening settled Northerly -
All hands till Breakfast as Yesterday, afterwards as on Thursday - Except four who afsisted drawing on Sleds lame Natives from their Tent the Back of this Island acrofs the River - Two Men Twenty Women & fatherlefs Children pitched away this day - to be ready for the Goose Hunt. The Hunters & families remain on this side to Hunt Deer which are expected to Crofs this Island the usual Season (the Change of this Moon) -
One Man came from the Eastern Shore Hunting Tent with only 20 partridges being the whole of one Weeks Hunt - An Indian brought 38 Partridges & 7 Rabbits"

Mar. 30
" Sunday A Stiff Breeze Nly Severe Clear Weather AM A Strong Gale PM raw Cold
The Hunter of Yesterday went to his Tent. sent two others with him in order to get things ready for the Goose Tent - Divine Service"

Mar. 31
" Monday Stiff Breezes var. from N to W Clear Severe Weather
Tradesmen engaged in the respective departments. Labourers employed wheeling Snow from Yard to the Bank of the River till noon - Afterwards prepaired things & loaded the Cargo Sled for Goose Tent in order to set off tomorrow
One Man came home from the Hunting Tent very Ill. Rec'd 19 Partridges from Indians"

April 1 1788
" Tuesday A Stiff Breeze var. from N to W part Clear & part Cloudy Cold raw Weather
Tradesmen as Yesterday. Sent 25 Men with the large Sled to the Fourteens River Loaded with a Wooden Canoe, Powder, Shot & other necefsaries for the use of the people at the Goose Tent - they returned abt 2 PM three of them much froze - rest variously Engaged"

Apr. 2
" Wednesday Moderate Breezes var. from NW to NE Clear Sharp Weather
All hands as on Monday except two out with the Gun, not a Bird or Game of any kind to be seen"

Apr. 3
" Thursday Variable Light Airs and moderate Breezes almost round the Compafs - Morning and Evening sharp middle part of the day thawing and mild
All the Tradesmen as before. Labourers as on Tuesday last hauling Boat &c on the Large Sled to the Fourteens for the use of the Goose Hunters - The depth of the Snow convinces me (that as the warm weather advances especially if a sudden thaw) a great flow of Water will follow & in consequence expect a great inudation? & heavy breaking up of the River Ice. - which makes me use every precaution (in my power) to gaurd against its Ravages
A few Snow Birds made their Appearance this day
Rec'd 10 Partridges & 1 Rabbit"

Apr. 4
" Friday Breezes Nly Sharp clear Weather
All hands as Yesterday - Sent the Men as before to the Fourteens River with Salt, Empty Casks &c &c - three Men left to take care of the things & to procure necefsaries for the Tent - Rec'd 19 Partridges from Natives"

Apr. 5
" Saturday Breezes variable from N to E Clear Sharp Weather
All hands as on Monday till Noon except three afsisting Cleaning out Warehouses & examining Cloth &c &c -
The Partridge Hunters came from the Eastw'd with their Bedding &c their Tent is left for the use of the people at the Fourteens River for the Goose Season -
Rec'd 50 Partridges from the Eastw'd - 20 Do. & 29 Rabbits from Natives who traded 2 pr Snow Shoes"

Apr. 6
" Sunday Breezes SSE Clear fine Weather PM a fresh Breeze Wly Morning & Evening sharp middle of the day Mild & thawing. Sent Chas Isham one Englishman & 3 Indians acrofs Nelson River to look for Deer - Divine Service"

Apr. 7
" Monday Light Airs var. AM Breezes Wly PM Mild and thawing Weather
Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Labourers wheeling out Snow and doing other necefsary Duties - Sent one man to afsist getting ready necefsaries for the Goose Tent - Had the remaining Warehouses overhauled - Cleaned out and Stores examined &c - Four men hunting around Factory. it is now three Weeks since (nearly?) twenty Men have been employed daily removing Snow from within the Stockades to the Banks of the River and not one Quarter cleared away it being in many places from 6 to 10 feet deep
Rec'd 13 Partridges"

Apr. 8
" Tuesday Variable breezes all round the Compafs part clear & part cloudy AM mild & thawing PM raw cold with snow. All hands as before except James Hall who is Ill - Rec'd 4 Partridges"

Apr. 9
" Wednesday Breezes N & NE by E clear sharp Weather
All hands as before"

Apr. 10
" Thursday Var. Breezes AM clear severe Weather. Noon moderate towards Evening much snow with Breezes SSE
All hands as before - James Hall on Duty. began laying Foundation of Eastern Flanker, the frame thereof was compleated a few days ago"

Apr. 11
" Friday Ely Breezes AM fine & clear, much snow PM
All hands as before - Chas Isham and party I sent on Sunday returned unsuccefsful, tells me they did not see even the track of game since they have been absent & that want of Provisions forced them home"

Apr. 12
" Saturday Nly Gale AM with much drifting Snow afterwards a stiff breeze from the same quarter part clear and part cloudy cold weather
Too bad Weather for businefs out - Labourers engaged in the House Picking Oakum & making Sinnet, Tobacco pegs &c &c &c. As are the Tradesmen respectively employed on necefsary duties"

Apr. 13
" Sunday Var. Breezes AM sharp cold Weather PM fine & clear
Mr Cook and 1 Man went acrofs the River to hunt and see if things are ready for the Goose Tent.
All the Natives came from the Back of this Island to be ready for the Goose Hunt"

Apr. 14
" Monday AM variable breezes Clear thawing weather PM a strong Gale Sly and cloudy
Carpenter and Afsistants laying ground floor of Building. Smith & Armourer Cleaning Hunting Guns &c - three Taylors at work for Trade. Cooper & 2 Sailors at work for Inland. 3 to the Eastward. 5 Hunting - all the rest variously engaged, clearing out snow & other necefsary duties - Willm Sclater had the misortune to cut himself with an Adze - two others on the sick List - Rec'd 25 Partridges"

Apr. 15
" Tuesday Moderate Breezes Sly Mild & thawing
All hands and sick as Yesterday - All the Natives came from the Eastward to join others at the Factory - and received their usual annual treat prior to the Goose Hunt"

Apr. 16
" Wednesday A Strong Gale last night W by S and this morning early a heavy shower of rain, afterwards Sleet & snow. when the Wind settled with a Nly Breeze Cloudy Mild Weather
In the Morning all hands variously engaged in the House. Afternoon engaged as yesterday
Eight Men 3 youths, 10 Women & 28 Children pitched away for the Goose Hunt to the Eastward - being the whole of the Natives at YF"

Apr. 17
" Thursday Breezes Nly very sharp & cloudy AM with Hail - PM more moderate and clear
All hands as on Monday no Partridges or Game to be seen"

Apr. 18
" Friday Stiff Breezes Nly Clear Sharp Weather
All hands and sick as before ? "

Apr. 19
" Saturday Breezes N by W variable Wly Clear cold Weather - Middle of the day more Mild & thawing
All Hands and sick as before - One Man came from the Eastward for Provisons - I have the pleasure of seeing the frame of the Northern flanker errected and the girders of each floor laid.
The small quantity of English Provisions in our Ware House and the great scarsity of Game obliged me this day to serve out short allowance"

Apr. 20
" Sunday Pleasant Breezes SSW mild thawing Weather
The Men who came from the Eastward yesterday returned with whom I sent the Cooper to repair the Casks collected together last fall to be ready for the Salting of Geese - Divine Service "

Apr. 21
" Monday Early AM Breezes Sly afterwards became variable with drifting Snow & Hail very Cold
All the Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Labourers variously employed. three Men to the Eastw'd. Willm Sclater rendered uncapable of duty by the wound he received last Monday
Weighed & packed in several different Bags nearly a Ton of Shot & Ball for Inland and Boxes made for Packing small Goods in for that Trade. had a Platform made to build the Boat on sent out in frame last season"

Apr. 22
" Tuesday Stiff Breezes Nly Clear Cold Weather
Tradesmen employed at their respective occupations. Labourers wheeling Snow from out the works & doing other necefsary duties. Had the snow removed from our birchrind Canoes, which was upwards of 12 Feet deep on them"

Apr. 23
" Wednesday Stiff Breezes Nly Clear Sharp Weather
Men exercising small Arms - Cooper returned from the Goose Tent having repaired 20 Hhds. Six Men very Ill"

Apr. 24
" Thursday Stiff Breezes Nly clear sharp Weather
Sent Mr Charles Isham and two Men acrofs Nelson River to look for deer - Mr Cook set off to the Tent on the Eastern Shore to serve out necefsaries for the Goose Hunters - rest of the Men variously engaged, too cold for Tradesmen to work without Doors - Sick as Yesterday - The Natives came to the Factory for Oatmeal &c and Traded a few Skins"

Apr. 25
" Friday Pleasant Breezes Variable from NW to SW Mild thawing Weather
All hands as on Tuesday - began putting up the Boat (sent out in frame) together - I must remark we had no nails sent out for her or Colors to paint her with when compleated
In the Evening three Natives came from the Eastward to set off tomorrow acrofs Nelson River to try for Deer. Killed three Pigs Wt 138 lbs"

Apr. 26
" Saturday Light Airs variable - Mild pleasant Weath.
All hands as before - Early this Morning the Natives who came in Yesterday set off to hunt Deer as did three others who came from the Goose Tent"

Apr. 27
" Sunday Breezes S & SW fine pleasant thawing Weather
One Man came from the Goose Tent - Divine Service"

Apr. 28
" Monday Light Airs & gentle Breezes var. from S to W part clear & part cloudy Mild thawing Weather & towards Evening Rain
Sent the Men who came home Yesterday to the Goose Tent - All the Tradesmen at their respective Occupations - Labourers variously engaged Wheeling snow from without the Works, cleaning Boats and doing other necefsary duties. Sent two Men to examine the state of the deer hedge who report that nearly the whole is covered with snow - One man went to the Back of this Island for setting Guns - Wm Sclater Ill. Much Water appears on the River Ice"

Apr. 29
" Tuesday Early AM a sharp frost with a Nly Wind & afterwards variable breezes all round the Compafs part claer and part cloudy thawing weather
All hands as before - One man added to the sick list. Mr Chas Isham & men I sent out on Thursday returned as did the Natives who set out on Saturday - they say not a track of Deer is to be seen or Game of any sort stirring"

Apr. 30
" Wednesday AM Moderate Breezes NE sharp frosty Weather. afterwards variable to E by S Mild & thaw'g
- All hands and sick as before. began packing up Trading Goods &c for Inland. two Brewing - Early this Morning sent Men to cut Tent Poles - Had the Victualling Hole opened Provisions taken out. Nets & Rings stowed away for the Season
John Mellem Armourer taken very Ill
The Natives of Yesterday went to the Eastw'd"

May 1 1788
" Thursday Light Airs Ely part clear & part cloudy with Hail & Rain
All hands & sick nearly as before"

May 2
" Friday Light Airs Ely with Rain AM afterwards clear towards Evening a thick fog with Ely Breezes
Men & Sick as before"

May 3
" Saturday Early AM a sharp frost afterwards light Airs Ely fine mild Weather . PM variable breezes from E to SE
All hands nearly as before. Had the Ware House overhauld cleaned out, Goods examined and stowed away. Finished packing Trading Goods & Stores for Inland (as per? Indent Braz. Tobacco & Brandy excepted) - Geese seen near the Factory as were Gulls and Plover, these last are a sure sign that the Ice upwards has given way tho we have no appearance at present on our River."

May 4
" Sunday AM Breezes Ely afterwards variable to SSE fine Mild Weather
John Mellem very Ill - Divine Service - rec'd 1 Goose & 1 Duck"

May 5
" Monday Stiff Breezes Ely clear cold Weather
John Mellem Willm Sclater & Pateroon very Ill rest of the Tradesmen at their respective Occupations
Labourers variously engaged, had the Cables fixed to all the Boats & secured in case of a sudden inudation on the Breaking up of the River Ice. part of the Sd Channel gave way this day & much water appears on the whole body - Rec'd 2 Ducks"

May 6
" Tuesday Wind Easterly Clear sharp frosty Weath.
All hands as yesterday - except two who are Brew'g
In the Evening part of the Ice in Mid Channel gave way and near midnight water rose suddenly in the Creek many feet - Fired a Gun to alarm the Hunters at the Eastward to be on their Gaurd"

May 7
" Wednesday Wind & Weather as yesterday -
Past midnight the River Ice broke up facing the Factory (with a loud explosion equal to thunder) pafsed rapidly down the River for some time but on its receiving a Check from the gound Ice below the Fishing Creek (which had not given way) caused a great swell, forced large peices up the Factory Creek, covered our Long Boat, broke down the Stockades & rose the water nearly on a level with the foundation of our Dwelling House. Many of the Men thro fear left the Factory & fled to the Woods for safety, about 3 AM the ground Ice gave way at the Fishing Creek and pafsed very furiously down the River for two hours driving large peices on shore and the Whole Body while in motion was far higher than the tops of our dwelling Houses - on its receiving a second Check at the Old Battery Bar (a sand so called) the weight broke thro this strong formed Ice on the Banks and poured in torrents upon us, our dwelling was laid two feet under Water - large fields of Ice drove within our Works carrying all before it and threatening destruction to us and our Buildings - Our Boats employed within the Stockades taken Men & necefsaries to the Woods - The Water kept gradually raising till 12 oClock (at which time it was five feet deep in our Dwelling House) when part of the Ice gave way & the whole body became in Motion & drove within 15 feet of out Works as lofty as the highest building - broke down the inner hoisting place & tore up the lower timbers thereof
Secured many Articles of Trading Goods in the Boats & waited the event of this Tide - one of the Boats struck on the King post of the Stockades as she was pafsing over by the force of the Current and the Men narrowly escaped. in 1/2 an Hours time the water fell considerably - By 6 oClock all hands left the Factory (except myself Wm Smith, James Grimbester, Mag. Flett, Jas Banks) to sleep in the Woods - sent several Casks of Powder in the Boats - the water being sufficiently deep to work with oars to Robsons Beacon
Considering the dangerous situation of these premises, the wreck & Ice floating around us entered a Canoe when it began to grow dark and placed our Boats &c at secure distances with Men to keep Watch to observe the Motions of the night Tide"

May 8
" Thursday Wind nearly as before. Frost so intense in the night it was with difficulty we kept ourselves from freezing. This mornings Tide rose the water higher by 6 Inches than the proceeding one & forced large peices of Ice over the plantation into the Woods with a great Noise - As soon as day appeared entered the Factory with the 4 Men as before & found (Blefs God) the premises safe. By 9 oClock the water fell 4 of 5 feet in the House. Examined the premises. The devastation is great in every Quarter of the Works and the prospect around is Mellancholy, distrefsing, and would by far exceed the most discriptive pen.
Engaged the whole day with the four Men saving and securing from the wreck such necefsary Articles as were within our management & reach. - A few of the Men came to the Factory for a few necefsary Articles and set off again almost immediately. Myself & 4 Men were the only persons who remained at the House
The Ground Ice at the Battery Bar remains firm, that on the River much lower & water moderately lefsening"

May 9
" Friday Pleasant Breezes Sly fine clear weather
This morning the Water fell to the lower floor of Dwelling House - Sent for all the Men (sick excepted) to afsist in drying Stores & provisions - Am happy to find that the lofs (tho great) will not be equal to what our fears suggested - As I had fortunately secured all the Dry Goods & perishable Goods in the upper lofts - Many of Pease & Oatgrot Casks burst by the swelling of the grain - but I hope I shall be able to save the greater part if please God to send us a few days fine Weather After staying this days Tide took two Men with me in a Canoe thro Mefseergomerscums Path to try the Ground upwards and as water is true a level as can be found examined many places - At last met with a spot nearly one mile from the factory (more or lefs uncertain) the Ground of which appears many feet above the surface of the Water rose by this Deluge & extends in a Dry ridge upwards of a furlong in Length from the Banks of theRiver. From the Accounts I had rec'd and Heard of the breaking up of the River Ice (which was but a feint discription to this I have been witnefs to) I acted with as much caution as I was Master of and provided in the best I was able in case of Accident and had all the Buildings ( I have hitherto erected) so constructed and bolted together that they can be removed at pleasure with only the trouble of taking down & putting up again. The Mens Flanker excepted which is built with Logs. even this I hope to force afsunder & convert to the same use without lofs of Timber. I intend with the Blefsing of God to fix a Foundation on the spot before mentioned it appears to me ? Eligible & safe from the breaking up of the River Ice which has forced a pafsage thro Sloops Creek and drove up several large Fields beyond Mefseergomerscums Bridge more than double the diameter mentioned in Mr Martens Journal the 11th May 1785 [..."Forty five feet long 21 Broad and fourteen high"...] on speaking of the Deluge that year - the whole creek from the River filled The Woods covered & Trees broke down with its weight a considerable distance from the Banks edge - All hands (except myself and the four men before mentioned) left the factory"

May 10
" Saturday Wind and Weather as yesterday
All hands (Mr Robinson & sick excepted) came to the factory and employed as yesterday
Had all the Chests belonging to your Honors servants Inland examined & Contents dryed -
Blefs God the foundation and many parts of the Inner yard is left dry but around the Dwelling House is knee deep in Water - Saw an Indian coming down Mefseergomerscums Path - sent men in a Boat to bring him to the House, He says that others with their families and Canoes are this side of Dram Creek were he landed & walked down this Island. And that the River is clear of Ice from the Six Mile Island upw'd that the Shores? are loaded with it - After receiving a little Tobacco, Brandy &c &c he set off to join his friends
A few of the Men ventured to sleep at the House this Evening"

May 11
" Sunday Wind & Weather as yesterday till PM when it blew a fresh breeze S by E afterwards shifted Ely -
The Water fallen considerably this last night and at 9 oClock AM was at the Mark Mr Marten set up the Great Deluge 1785
Sent for all the Men to come to the Factory with their Bedding etc etc. as all danger appeared over, nearly all hands as before except a few who refused working on the Sabbath yet they were not so tenacious of their Concience in doing & working for themselves
An Old Native & Son came down this Island as yesterday from Dram Creek with a Deer & a Goose they killed this morning which they traded. The old man was in a great consternation at the quantity of Ice around the Factory, declared he never saw anything so terrible before, and said he was affraid to bring his family - & beg'd that Englishmen might be sent for his Furrs when the River was clear of Ice. He promises to remain with his family up the River & Hunt for me -
In the Afternoon part of the Ice give way at the Old Battery House Barr and the whole body was in motion several times & lodged a Short distance below it the water fell off fast & the plantation in many places left dry. Rec'd 55 lbs Venison & 1 Goose"

May 12
" Monday Stiff breezes NEly fine clear Weather. In the last night the Ice was in motion several times going down with a dreadful noise and by daylight this morning had a clear River in sight about a mile above us
Three Taylors and Smith at work for trade. two Building Boat. 3 Hunting. took James Hall with me & marked the ground whereon I intend to errect a New Building up the River as mentioned on Friday - 13 Men cutting down Woods around. All the rest cleaning Warehouses examining Provisions drying Grain & Stores (except 5 Ill) - By two oClock PM this Channel clear of Ice but Shores, Flatts & Islands loaded with it, lofty Piles left on the Plantation & Banks facing the Factory as high as the tops of our dwelling Houses and many large Fields drove thro the Woods several hundred yards behind the Works - Besides the upper Hoisting place broke down, find the Platform and stairs blown up, our Large Guns behind the Batteries over turned & two Swivels washed away with the ruins. Water fell this day 14 ft perpendicular yet our Long boat remains covered."

May 13
" Tuesday Ely Breezes part clear & part cloudy
Sent 13 Men to Tent & hunt Geese at the Back of this Island, the rest as yesterday (except two added to the sick)
The Water fallen off so as to see our long boat which was emptied & it gives me pleasure to add she rec'd little damage - In the Evening a Native his Wife & young Child came to the House in a very distrefsed condition having lost 4 of his family who were drowned two days ago on this Island & he is affraid all his Friends & Relations ? 16 in Number shared the same fate. they parted the same time & has not seen or heard of them since"

May 14
" Wednesday Breezes from E to S part clear & part cloudy
The Men employed yesterday cutting down Woods are engaged repairing Deer Hedge &c &c. rest as before
Two Natives came from Dram Creek with 2 Canoes loaded with Venison which they traded and set off to their families - requested that Boats might be sent tomorrow for the Flesh of many Deer they had killed
The Indian who came in yesterday went to hunt Deer, and in the Afternoon one of his Companions, supposed to be lost came to the Factory. we coud not see the Natives come down the River from the tops of our houses. The 3 Beacons so long standing in the Marsh are broke down by the late deluge & carried away
Rec'd 136 lbs Venison killed by Englishmen
      78 lbs Do. caught in deer hedge
    1011 lbs traded by Indians, besides 14 Tongues & Heads"

May 15
" Thursday Breezes Variable all round the Compafs. Cloudy Weather
James Hall & 4 Afsistants putting temporary Stockades up - rest of Tradesmen & others as before except 4 Salting Venison - & 8 Men in two Boats sent up the River for Deer killed by Natives - In the Evening an Old Native and two Children came in being part of those supposed to be lost, he says the greatest part who parted from the family that arrived here the 13 Inst. were drove on broke peices of Ice to the North Shore of Nelson River - As did three Natives from Dram Creek with Canoes accompanied our Boats with Venison & nine Bundles of Furrs
Rec'd 230 lbs Venison from Deer Hedge
      72 Do. from Englishmen
    2053 Do. from Natives. besides 38 Tongues"

May 16
" Friday Stiff Breezes Ely Cloudy Weather
The 8 Men who went up the River yesterday employed Salting Venison, the rest and sick as before
The Natives who came from Dram Creek yesterday traded their Venison & set off to hunt Deer
Took 4 Men in a Boat to examine the Banks of the River - and the Men I sent to Tent at the back of this Island returned. very unsuccefsful
Rec'd 60 lbs Venison from Deer Hedge
     56 lbs Do. from Englishmen
    577 lbs Do. from Natives
besides 8 Tongues 1 Goose & 31 Ducks"

May 17
" Saturday Ely Breezes Cloudy foggy Weather, Thunder & much rain last night
Tradesmen as before. sent 4 Men in a Boat if pofsible to land at French Creek and walk on shore to the Fourteens River to inquire if all is safe at the Goose Tent. they returned with a small quantity of Deers flesh, says that Geese are very scarse and the Deluge favorable. rest of Labourers employed Collecting together timbers & part is drove with many Casks, Stockades &c &c nearly 2 Miles from the House
The two Natives who came in the 14 & 15 Inst. set off to seek after their friends and in the Evening two Natives in two Canoes came from Dram Creek Loaded with Venison. says many deer are killed up the River and begs that Englishmen might be sent for them tomorrow
  Rec'd 707 lbs of Venison"

May 18
" Sunday A fresh Gale Ely Raw Cold the whole day - towards Evening A Strong Gale
The Natives set off up the River with 8 Englishmen in two Boats for venison mentioned yesterday
Rec'd 621 lbs Venison
20 Tongues"

May 19
" Monday A Strong Gale of Wind NE by E and variable Ely Raw Cold with much snow the whole day
Tradesmen variously engaged in their respective Shops - Labourers employed Salting Venison, Cleaning out Cellar, Picking Oakum, Casting Ball, making Nets &c &c
John Mellem, Wm Sclater, Nicholas Spence & 1 Labourer Ill"

May 20
" Tuesday A Strong Gale NE & variable N & NW Cloudy Weather with drifting Snow
The Morning the snow on the Ground nearly 1 foot deep - PM blowing a Hurricane with Sleet Hail very Cold & Freezing sharp
All hands (& sick nearly as before) engaged in the House"

May 21
" Wednesday Breezes NE by E Clear sharp Weather
All hands in the Morning as before. PM engaged putting up temporary Stockades and other necefsary duties - Two Building boat - sent two men to try for fish at tenshilling Creek - Four Natives & families came from Dram Creek paid their debts & traded a few Skins."

May 22
" Thursday Breezes NE b E sharp Cloudy weather AM afterwards became variable became varible Sly tow'ds Evening Raw Cold
All hands nearly as before - too severe the early part of the day for Businefs without doors"

May 23
" Friday A fresh Gale Ely AM Cold frosty weather with Hail & Snow very uncomfortable & Cloudy - PM a strong Gale NW towards Evening abated, at night a hurricane of Wind from the same quarter
All hands variously engaged in the House too bad Weather to work out. The Men I sent to 10 Shilling Creek on Wednesday last returned with only 10 Trout Wt 16 lbs - Sick as before. The Natives who came in on Wednesday finished Trade. they brought a quantity of prime Furrs - not lefs than 150 Martin Skins Traded to each mans share - and during their stay at Dram Creek they killed for us 81 Head of Deer"

May 24
" Saturday A Stiff Breeze NW b W and variable to W b S Clear Cold Weather
Eight Men afsisting all the Natives & their families acrofs the River - the rest as on Wednesday afternoon except two who are added to the sick List"

May 25
" Sunday Var. Breezes from SW to NW shifting alternately and PM to NE part clear & part cloudy - Divine Service"

May 26
" Monday Variable Light Airs and Gentle breezes almost round the Compafs part clear part cloudy cold Weather towards Evening Snow
Smith, Cooper, two Taylors & 1 Man at work for Inl'd. 2 Men building Boat 2 Stretching Skins, one attending the drying of Grain. Sent three Men up the River to hunt & try for Fish. James Hall & two Men afsisting me laying out Ground on the New Plantation up the River &c &c - Seven Men digging Cellars and clearing? away for the making secure foundations for building which I intend to be of stone being more lasting than that of Brick in this Cold Climate - Wm Sclater & J Mellem besides two Men Ill one attending the sick - the rest collecting together Timber & other things by the late deluge
On taking a survey of the land (this day) around the new Plantation, find the level of the Ground on the Bank of the River to be 29 feet 4 Inches perpendicular from low Water Mark, and regularly ascends backw'ds to the spot whereon I hope with the blefsing of God to lay the foundation of new Buildings (6 feet 4 Inches) the Centre of which is 157 yards from the Banks Edge behind? which it falls off with an irregular descent?
The late Deluge (the highest ever known at this place by the Oldest Native) the water rose 32 feet 7 Inches perpendicular but did not reach the spot above mentioned by 3 feet 9 Inches - and is from 10 to 12 feet higher ground than where our Present ruinous building of the Factory stands
On Sounding the River find sufficient Water for the Severn Sloop to unload her cargo at the Launch to be Errected without danger or risque
Rec'd Venison 72 lbs from Deer hedge"

May 27
" Tuesday Light Breezes Variable Ely Clear frosty Cold Weath.
some of the Men engaged with James Hall clearing away for? the Foundations. the rest & sick as before
The collecting the timber &c &c together is attended with much difficulty & Labour - large quantities of the peices being ? forced? with the Current to? considerable distance from the House thro' the Woods. Several of the old Large gun Carriages notwithstanding the quantities of Iron work in them are now more than a quarter of a mile from the Factory drove with heavy feilds of Ice & an old Sheet Anchor belonging to the Ship is remov'd upwards of 50 yards from her berth last fall. this Circumstance alone will shew that the weight of Ice & force of Current during the late Deluge must have been great"

May 28
" Wednesday Breezes Ely AM Cold frosty Weather PM a fresh Gale from the same quarter
Two of the sick on Duty rest as before - In the Evening the three men I sent up the River on Monday returned with only 40 lbs Fish & 1 Half Beaver"

May 29
" Thursday AM fresh Breezes. Clear pleas't Weather PM a fresh Gale
The Men removing timber yesterday Salting Venison greatest part of this day. rest as before except two added to the Sick List - In the Morning 15 Canoes of Home Gaurd Natives came down the river appearantly well Loaded with Furrs - they brot also the flesh of 30 Deer Wt 1590 lbs & 10 Tongues - In the afternoon five North River Natives came to the House (are part of those supposed to be lost as mentioned in Journal the 13th Inst.) and say after they were seperated on broken peices of Ice being driven by the with the Current to the North Shore of Nelson River & four out of the Number that were forced on this Island lost their lives"

May 30
" Friday Cold frosty Weather with Ely Breezes Afternoon Snow
The Men removing Timber on Wednesday are afsisting on the new Plantation - rest & sick as before
A few of the Natives paid their Debts & traded & in the afternoon 5 Came from the Goose Tent with a Letter from Mr Cook. who writes that the Geese has left that Quarter, that the whole killed amounts to no more than 550 besides 80 Ducks"

May 31
" Saturday Ely Breezes part clear & part cloudy cold Weather
Sent 5 Men in a Boat acrofs the River to the Goose Tent, they Landed at French Creek & walked to the Fourteens River to the Goose Tent, three came home in the Evening with Mr Cook. the other Men remain there for fair Weather to bring home boat &c &c left there last Winter - Rest of Men as before - A few of the Natives paid their Debts & Traded - Rec'd 8 Geese & 10 Plover"

June 1 1788
" Sunday Fresh breezes Ely Clear Weather a sharp Frost with much snow last night & early this Morning
The North River Natives who came in the 29th set off as did those who came from the Goose Tent after being paid for their Hunt & trusted small debts to hunt Deer. The remainder of the HomeGaurds paid their Debts & part finished trade"

June 2
" Monday Wind & Weather as yesterday middle part of the day Mild & pleasant
Smith, Cooper two men & two Taylors at work for Inland. two Building Boat, twenty men at the New plantation prepairing foundations &c &c sent two Men up the river to clear nets & try for fish, four on the Eastern Shore, one attending Grain, Wm Sclater & John Mellem very Ill - the rest necefsaryly engaged. A few of the Natives took up small debt to hunt for Deer
Rec'd 12 lbs fish & 2 Small Ducks"

June 3
" Tuesday Wind & Weather as yesterday till noon when it became cloudy with mizzling rain
All hands nearly as before. the two men who went up the River yesterday are engaged Slinging Rundlets for Inland. the Men came from the Eastward with Tent Leather &c &c - Smoaked with Homegaurd Natives & finished Trade - they brought a large quantity of small Furrs amounting in the Whole 1600 MB with very little Parchment Beaver considering the quantity. In the afternoon the Whole Body set off acrofs the River - two families excepted, one of which Old & infirm "

June 4
" Wednesday Stiff Breezes Ely with a Continued gale heavy Rain, Hail & Sleet Alternately. Cloudy Cold Weather PM a Fresh Gale Wly Cold & frosty Airs
The Tradesmen & Sick as before. The rest variously engaged in the House - Grinding Oatmeal, picking Oakum, Making nets, Slinging Inland Rundlets, two filling them with Brandy &c &c &c. two afsisting me Drying Sorting & tying up Furrs &c"

June 5
" Thursday Nly Breezes - A Sharp frost last night - Early AM Clear afterwards Cloudy with Hail & Snow very Cold
Sent six Men in a Boat to the Marsh for the Launch Steps drifted from this place when the Fort was destroyed by the Enemy - rest of the Men & sick nearly as on Monday. Filled upwards of 80 Rundlets with Brandy for Inland Trade the same being Slung for Carriage. Two Canoes of Natives came from acrofs the River to request that Boats might be sent for the Women & Children sent to the Goose Tent they are waiting at French Creek - One of the Canoes returned back
Rec'd 20 Plover & 4 Ducks"

June 6
" Friday Nly Breezes Severe Cold Weather a sharp frost last night & continued this day
This Morning two Canoes of Natives set off and in the Afternoon all the Men (Natives) Women & Children from the Goose Tent were brought from acrof the River in two Boats sent for that purpose with 6 Englishmen
The Tradesmen & sick as before - All the rest collecting Timber &c &c together washed away by the deluge - Squaring peices for Building & other necefsary duties except one Hunting - Rec'd 16 plover 1 Goose"

June 7
" Saturday Fine clear Weather with breezes NNW. The Morning Sharp Frost afterwards Mild & pleasant
All the Natives who came yesterday from the Goose Tent set off to hunt for Deer acrofs the North River after being trusted small debts (except Old & helplefs) - and soon after two Northern Indians came in, Traded, took up Debt & went away immediately
Four Men at the Pitsaw, Tradesmen & Sick as before. All the rest afsisting James Hall making a step? at the New Plantation for the Carrying up Timber, Boats &c &c - except two who accompanied Mefs Robinson & Cook to Ten Shilling Creek to try for Fish
Rec'd 20 lbs Trout"

June 8
" Sunday Variable breezes almost round the Compafs at times squalls of Wind Sly part clear & part cloudy mild Weather
In the Afternoon five? Canoes with 10 Bungee Men Natives came down ther River with 4 Flags flying. and all but one Cheif (who was with me last Season) strangers to York.
The Natives of this day? brought the Melancholly Intelligance that one of the Englishmen who went from this place last year Inland was unfortunately shot by his own Gun going off accidentally in one of the Canoes near the Play Green about 9 or 10 Days Journey from Cumberland House.
Rec'd 450 lbs Venison"

June 9
" Monday Variable Breezes all round the Compafs Clear temporate Weather
Cooper, Smith two Taylors & 1 Man at work for Inland, two Building Boat, Four at Pitsaw, 18 Men with James Hall prepairing and making foundations on new Plantation. The rest variously engaged. Wm Sclater, J Mellem & Wm Sinclair on Sick List
This Morning 5 Canoes of Bungee Natives & 15 of North River Indians came to the Factory as did 4 Home Gaurds in two Canoes from the Eastw'd for Oatmeal &c &c who say they have not seen any Game since they left the Plantation & that only 1 Goose has been killed among them"

June 10
" Tuesday Breezes Ely and varable to NE morning Foggy & very thick middle part of the day clear & pleas't afterwards it came on a thick Fogg temporately Mild
Sent Eleven Men to the Woods to raft home Timber &c - rest & sick as before - The Bungee Natives who came in on sunday Traded"

June 11
" Wednesday Ely Breezes Clear temporate Weather
All hands and sick as before
The Bungee Natives of Monday Traded & set off with those who finished yesterday in the whole 10 Canoes & soon after 3 Canoes of the same tribe arrived - part of the North River Indians paid their Debts & Traded part"

June 12
" Thursday AM stiff Breezes E b S Clear moderate Weather. PM variable fresh Breezes & Squally Gales Sly with Thunder Showers very Sultry & Muskeatoes numerous
All hands and Sick nearly as before - The Natives who came in Yesterday paid their Debts & traded part as did the North River tribe - Sent two Young Indian Men in the Marsh to Hunt. who say no Game is stirring"

June 13
" Friday AM pleasant Breezes & light Airs S b E Clear fine Weather. PM Squally Gales Nly with tremendious heavy thunder & lighting.
All hands and Sick as before 'till 10 O'Clock when the men who went to the Woods on Tuesday returned with four floats Squared Timber, Plank &c when all were engaged removing the same to the Inner yard till the Weather became too bad to Workout. Smoaked & traded with the Bungee Natives who arrived on Wednesday. - two Canoes of the same tribe Arrived in the Morning as did nine families belonging to the same Gang in the Evening accompanied by 4 of the men who went away on Wednesday. Muskeatoes numerous & troublesome.
Reced 182 lbs Venison from Deerhedge."

June 14
" Saturday Light Airs Sly Early AM very sultry & Muskeatoes numerous. afterwards came on NE Breezes Cloudy & Cold towards Evening Mizzling rain with thick Fogg.
Early this Morning the Bungees who accompanied the others last Night traded a few Skins & set off - & Smoaked & finished Trade with all who arrived Yesterday. Nearly all hands engaged carrying Timber from River to the Inner yard &c &c.
Rec'd 308 lbs Venison from Deerhedge."

June 15
" Sunday Light Airs & gentle Breezes N by E Cloudy Foggy Weather - the Morning a slight frost - Engaged great part of the day in Trading Room"

June 16
" Monday Light Airs AM PM stiff Breezes N b E Cloudy Foggy Weather
Fifteen Men with James Hall prepairing foundations on New Plantation - Nine engaged packing Tobacco for Inland. Cooper, Smith & two Taylors at work for the same Trade, four at the Saw Pit. one finishing Boat - Armourer mending Indian Guns. Wm Sclater making Nets. rest variously engaged - The Bungee Natives who arrived on Friday set of & all all the North River ones finished Trade"

June 17
" Tuesday A Strong Gale of Wind Ely the Morning foggy & Cold. afternoon moderate & Clear
Men nearly as Yesterday except James Hall & afsistant who began framing Building for New Errection up the River
Finished Packing Brazil Tobacco for Inland Trade as per Indent which is Large. the lofs on this Article will be considerably greater than that of last year - One of the Rolls particularly (No. 41 of 1783 Wt 470) was so considerably damaged as not to have more than 93 lbs of good in the whole - all that which is unfit for Trade is collected together for Mr Tomisons Inspection, I have but a small quantity (one large Roll) left & if it shoud prove alike bad I know not what I shall do to supply trading Indians as those that have been in tells me they intend to take up Debt betimes? & set off to their Winter Quarters before the arrival of the Ship as they are apprehensive the fall will set in as early as the last"

June 18
" Wednesday Gale of yesterday continued till noon afterw'ds fresh Breezes ENE clear cold Weather
Tradesmen at the House as before. all the rest rafting Timber Peices squared to the New Plantation on which I began laying the Foundation for Building. Bungee Natives of last Wednesday finished Trade and the whole took up small Debt for Summer Hunting"

June 19
" Thursday Pleasant Breezes Ely temporate clear Weath.
Sent 10 Men who were rafting Timber Yesterday to the Woods to prepare for the bringing down firewood. All the rest as before - All the Natives set off this Morning in 17 Canoes taking different routs and in different parties - Invalids excepted to whom two old persons are added
Killed a small Deer Wt 56 lbs"

June 20
" Friday Pleasant temporate weather with Fresh breezes SE & squally Gales
All hands nearly as before except three collecting Lime Stones -
89 lbs Rec'd Venison from Deer hedge
91 lbs Do. - Do. Killed"

June 21
" Saturday fresh Breezes SE b E Clear moderate Weather
All hands as before - The Boat sent out in frame being put together, had her Launched this day - & a Pump made for the purpose of clearing Water from the foundations of Building on New Plantation
Rec'd Venison from Deer Hedge 104 lb."

June 22
" Sunday A fresh Gale Ely Clear Cold Weather
- Divine Service -"

June 23
" Monday AM pleasent Weather with Ely Breezes PM part calm & part Light Airs Variable from E to SE & Sly Sultry Warm & Muskeatoes troublesome. Armourer, Smith, Cooper & two Taylors at workfor Inland. Carpenters & Afsistants framing Building two Men repairing? four at the Pitsaw - Three collecting & breaking Lime Stones - Two Brewing Six on the New plantation. Ten at the Woods & rest variously engaged
Took three Men in Boat to work out whereon the three Beacons are to be errected in room of those carried away by the Ice & examine a large quantity of Wood drove on shore by the late deluge what must have been universal? up the River for it is really surprizing to see vast large trees torn up by the Roots & shivered to peices and now lies scattered about in the Marsh. part I hope to have rafted to the Factory the first opportunity & convert them to use for the new Buildings"

June 24
" Tuesday Part calm part light Airs & Breezes var. all round the Compafs. sultry Warm with thunder showers
All hands nearly as Yesterday except two Drying Meat. Traded with Indians till Afternoon when Musketoes became so numerous & troublesome as to prevent duty. About two oClock this Morning 4 Canoes of homegaurd Natives came from the Eastward with Dried & Half Dried Venison &c &c which they traded and set off as soon as time permitted & in the Evening a North River Native & family came in
Rec'd 260 Dried Meat & 77 tongues"

June 25
" Wednesday AM Light Airs Variable, sultry Warm Weather. Muskeatoes Numerous & troublesome - PM Pleasant Breezes PM Pleasant Breezes NE Clear & fine
All hands nearly as before. Had the Lime Kiln set and the Large Gun Carriages (took? by the late Deluge) repaired & remounted. One Man on the sick List. A Large Smoak appears SE of us of great extent which proceeds as we suppose from Woods on fire"

June 26
" Thursday AM Pleasant Breezes NE afterwards light Airs Clear Weather Muskeatoes numerous & troublesome
All hands nearly as before till noon when the Men who set off to the Woods on Thursday last returned with twelve Rafts of Firewood. Afterwards engaged removing it from River to pile
Two home gaurd Natives arrived this Morning from the Eastward with Venison which they traded and set off again with the Tide
Rec'd 196 Geese & 25 lbs Dried Venison"

June 27
" Friday A Sharp frost last night which gave us some respite from the Muskeatoes - Pleasant Breezes Sly Clear Weather
All hands engaged carrying Wood up the Bank. in the Evening 7 North River Indians came acrofs the Island with a few Deer Skins and dried Meat part of which they traded Wt. 110 lbs"

June 28
" Saturday fresh Breezes Sly Clear Weather AM Afterwards cloudy with rain
Sent 12 Men to the Woods to prepare rafts. rest as Thursday Morning - Muskeattoes & large flies (called here the Bull Dog) very troublesome but we have this Summer a greater Enemy than either. in an insect resembling the Blue Bottle fly whose numbers is so great as to fill all our appartments with Vermin & even our Strongest pickle will not preserve our Salt Meat from their Company. We judge the cause to proceed from the Deluge having left a foul sediment many Inches deep around us of an excrementitious quality the smell occaisioned thereby soon after the Water fell was very offensive. Two families of Natives set off"

June 29
" Sunday AM part clear Calm & part light Airs Variable almost round the Compafs very sultry PM very heavy Rain with a fresh Breeze Nly
Early this Morning Ten North & Musqua Rat River Natives came in having left the Principal of their Furrs at the point of Marsh & back of this Island - Mr Cook & three Englishmen went with a large Canoe & brought part"

June 30
" Monday fresh steady Breeze N b E Cloudy & Cold AM PM amost Calm sultry Clear weather with numerous Muskeatoes
Sent four Men to the back of this Island for furrs left yesterday - Armourer, Smith, Cooper & two Taylors at work for Inland. Carpenter and Afsistant framing Building. Had the Lime Kiln drawn and carried to the new plantation with part of framing. Twelve at the Woods. rest variously engaged preparing for the reception of Inland Servants who are now hourly expected
All the Natives who arrived on friday paid their debts Traded & set off. part of those who arrived yesterday Traded and one of them paid a debt of 50 Beav. he owed at Churchill. In the Evening two Musqua Rat River Natives came to the House having left their Canoe at the Back of this Island. They acquaint me the Canadians have Houses Errected near us in the middle track between this and Churchill Settlement and that many Canadian Traders went to the Northward last year - Rec'd 136 lbs Dried Meat"

July 1 1788
" Tuesday Part light Airs variable almost round the Compafs and part calm warm sutry weather. fly's of all kinds (of this Country's produce) both numerous & troublesome
All hands as yesterday except 4 afsisting Natives down the River to the point of Marsh with their Burthen? The Natives who came in on Sunday finished Trade as did those who arrived yesterday and set off part being afsisted with our Boats to their Canoes. In the Evening five Canoes of Musqua Rat River Natives arrived all strangers except two who visited this place last year"

July 2
" Wednesday AM variable Breezes Sly to SE Cloudy with showers of rain afterwards Clear with a fresh breeze Sly
Four Men collecting Stones for foundation of Building - Two Brewing. rest as before till the Afternoon when all hands were engaged rafting Plank, Boards & Joice to the New Plantation
Part of the Natives of yesterday Traded"

July 3
" Thursday A fresh Breeze Sly part clear & part cloudy. Muskeatoes numerous & troublesome
All hands nearly as before till noon when Mefs Tomison & Longmoor with 56 Englishmen & 1 Canadian Accompanied by 9 Indians in 20 Large & 8 Small Canoes Arrived with a fine Cargo of Furrs from the Inland Settlements
The Natives who came in on Tuesday last finished Trade early and set off - And in the Evening two Canoes of Natives arrived from the Eastward with Dried Meat"

July 4
" Friay Light Airs Variable from S to E part clear & part cloudy
All hands variously engaged on Inland duties. Sent off the Natives who arrived yesterday up the River to Hunt for Deer"

July 5
" Saturday Light Airs & Breezes NE part clear & part Cloudy & Foggy
All hands as yesterday, began packing Furrs from Inland - The Men who set off to the Woods on Saturday returned with 12 floats of Timber and Firewood
The Natives I sent up the River yesterday returned with 15 Deer which they Traded &c and set off to the Eastw'd. Rec'd 1347 Green & 167 Dried Venison besides 15 Tongues"

July 6
" Sunday Light Airs and Gentle Breezes variable temporate clear Weather
Engaged the whole day on Inland Businefs"

July 7
" Monday Breezes Variable from S to SE and Ely part clear & part cloudy till the afternoon when the wind shifted Nly with heavy rain
All the Factory Men removing the timber & Wood from the River up the Bank those from Inland packing Furrs - Two families of Natives arrived"

July 8
" Tuesday Light Airs and Gentle Breezes variable from NE to S Cloudy with showers of rain in the Morning Afterwards fine & Clear
All hands variously engaged on Inland Duties - In the Afternoon four Canoes of Natives arrived with Furrs entrusted to their Care by Mr Tomison"

July 9
" Wednesday Light Airs & gentle breezes NNE fine & clear
All hands engaged on Inland duties except bringing the remainder of fire Wood carried up the Bank
We find ourselves much more perplexed this year than last in settling with the men to return Inland. Even those who sent resolves? in 1786 & which came out last year refused signing Contracts on your honors terms for three years and insist on more Wages or will not return. it is evident that a Combination is entered into from the Oldest to the youngest servant in the Employ, and their whole conduct appears very misterious to me
Sent the two Natives who arrived on Monday to hunt up the River & in the Evening 3 Canoes of Home Gaurds came from the Eastward with Dried Meat & a few Skins"

July 10
" Thursday a fresh Gale NNE with Showers of rain and very Cold
All hands engaged on Inland duties, grind'g Oatmeal &c"

July 11
" Friday A Strong Gale NNE heavy Rain all last night and continued part of this day. Cloudy and very Cold
All hands as yesterday"

July 12
" Saturday Breezes Nly Early AM a thick Mist & Cloudy afterward Clear & pleasant
All hands as before - The Natives who came in on Wednesday traded early & set off - smoaked with those who afsisted Mr Tomison with Furrs from the Inland Settlements
Rec'd 346 lbs Dried Venison & 15 lbs Fatt - Killed a pigg 139 lbs Wt."

July 13
" Sunday Light Airs Variable from N to SE mild clear Weather
Engaged the whole day on Inland Businefs - The two Natives I sent up the River on Wednesday to hunt returned with only 3 Beaver, not a Deer or other game to be seen - Beaver flesh Wt 40 lbs"

July 14
" Monday Light Airs AM with clear Warm Sultry Weather and flies Numerous & troublesome PM Northerly breezes
All hands variously engaged on Inland Duties - sent three Men to try for Fish - no luck - Paid Natives for Bringing furrs from the Inland Settlements "

July 15
" Tuesday Breezes & light Airs Nly fine clear Weather
All hands as Yesterday - Had Nets set in several places of the River - also the Sein drawn & sent 2 Englishmen & two Indians to hunt in the Marsh who returned with 1 Duck, the whole produce of 10 Mens hard labour
This day I got several of the Men to return Inland, tho' with much difficulty, signed Contracts (long filled up) & several agreed with much persuasion to return back but pofsitively refused entering into Contract. A General disatisfaction Appears among the whole which shoud it long continue I am affraid will be very Injurious to that Trade"

July 16
" Wednesday Variable light Airs Nly fine clear Weather
All hands and Hunters as before. Two Canoes of Natives Arrived from the Eastward which they traded & set off
Rec'd 430 lbs Dried Meat & 16 lbs Fish"

July 17
" Thursday Light Airs and variable Breezes part clear & part cloudy with showers of Rain - All hands as before. sent seven Englishmen & two Natives to haul the Sein - No luck - or Game of any sort stirring"

July 18
" Friday Variable Light Airs part clear & part cloudy with Showers of Rain & much Thunder & Lightening
Mens employ as Yesterday - Two Natives came from the Eastward with the Flesh of one Deer and a few Skins which they Traded and set off immediately"

July 19
" Saturday Breezes NE part clear & part Cloudy
This Morning 21 Englishmen in 7 Large Canoes with 5 Small of Natives set off with trading Goods for the Inland Settlements - Sent men in two Boats to the fourteens River for the Geese &c &c left there, the rest as before - All the Inland Servants making prepirations to leave the Factory
In the Afternoon 9 Canoes of North River & 2 of Musqua Rat River Natives arrived with a Leader to each tribe"

July 20
" Sunday Variable Breezes NWly Early in the Morning much Rain - Middle part of the day fine - afterwards a Storm of Wind & Rain with tremendious heavy Thunder & Lightening which continued the whole night. Morning proved too bad for Canoes to set off. engaged on Inland duties the whole day - The Men who set off yesterday to the River Fourteens returned with Geese, Salt &c &c &c
In the afternoon 7 Canoes of Home gaurd Natives came to the Factory - the rest are waiting at French Creek with their families for our Boats to conduct them acrofs. part of the Indians who arrived yesterday paid their Debts
Rec'd 120 lbs Dried Meat & Pimecon"

July 21
" Monday A Strong Gale of Wind N b E all last night with heavy Rain which continued till near Noon - afterwards pleasant Breezes & fine Weather
Too Bad Weather in the Morning for Canoes to set off- All hands engaged on Inland duties"

July 22
" Tuesday Breezes NNW Early in the Morning cloudy with Rain - afterwards fine & pleasant
This Morning Mr Tomison accompanied by 36 Englishmen besides? Natives in 12 Large & 2 Small Canoes set off with Trading Goods for the Inland Settlements Amounting to [Blank]
Our Number at the Factory is encreased as only seven young hands (besides Wm Sabbiston from Severn) were able to undertake the Journey Inland in exchange for 10 Old Servants (including Mefs Tomison & Hudson) part whose times expire and are left till the Arrival of the Ship - and others who refuse to return Inland
All hands variously engaged clearing premises &c &c Had the Long Boat unloaded - Sent two Boats acrofs the River for Natives. & part of framing of Building conveyed to New Plantation
All the home gaurd Natives came from the Eastw'd with very few Skins or meat"

July 23
" Wednesday var. Breezes from NW to E Early AM Cloudy with Showers of rain afterwards fine and Clear
Sent 6 Men in a Boat to the Fourteens River for the remainder of things & to bring home Canoe - Tradesmen at their respective Occupations - Ten Men collecting Stones & prepairing for Building on the new plantation. two Brewing. two Hunting &c &c rest variously employed. a few of the Home Gaurd Natives paid their Debts & Traded. Two Canoes of Musqua Rat River Indians set off
Received 65 lbs of Beat Meat"

July 24
" Thursday Variable Breezes allround the Compafs part clear & part cloudy with gentle showers of Rain
All hands variously engaged. Hunters unsuccefsful. The North River Natives finished Trade and took up Debt for Winters Hunt the Homegaurd Natives paid theirs & traded - Rec'd 20 lbs Fatt & 36 Beat Meat"

July 25
" Friday Sultry & Variable light Airs all round the Compafs part clear & part Cloudy
Sent 4 Men to sleep out a few nights to hunt up the River and to set Nets at Rainbow Island & Pennycutway River - Seven Men hauled the Sein unsuccefsfully in several places in the River - sent them to the point of Marsh where they caught 150 Suckers. tho' this fish is seldom eaten by Englishmen in this Country are now very acceptable our want of fresh provisions is so great - Rest of Men as before except two Ill"

July 26
" Saturday Light Airs Sly part clear & part Cloudy - very sultry - Sand Flies & muskeatoes have been very numerous & troublesome for the Week past towards Evening much heavy Rain
All hands as before - prepared Letters & Closed the Packet for Churchill in order to send off tomorrow the Natives not being ready before
Ten Canoes of North River Natives set off for their Winters Quarters - Last Fall setting in so suddenly & early makes them apprehensive that the ensuing will be equally bad"

July 27
" Sunday Variable breezes almost round the Compafs part clear & part cloudy with Showers of Rain. Weather too bad in the Morning for Mr Longmoor & Packet Men to set off - Sent two Natives up the River to hunt for Deer. In the Evening three Musqua Rat River Natives came to the House having left their Canoe (the Back of this Island) and soon after four Canoes of the same gang? tribe arrived & two Athapescow Country Indians with them appearantly well stocked with Furrs"

July 27
" Sunday Variable breezes almost round the Compafs part clear & part cloudy with Showers of Rain. Weather too bad in the Morning for Mr Longmoor & Packet Men to set off - Sent two Natives up the River to hunt for Deer. In the Evening three Musqua Rat River Natives came to the House having left their Canoe (the Back of this Island) and soon after four Canoes of the same gang? tribe arrived & two Athapescow Country Indians with them appearantly well stocked with Furrs"

July 28
" Monday Light Breezes Variable AM afterwards Stiff Breezes Ely Clear Weather
Mr Robert Longmoor accompanied by two Natives set off with a Packet to Churchill. sent two men in a large Canoe to conduct them acrofs Nelson River - they reached no farther than the point of Marsh - where they remain. The Seas run too high for them to venture round
Two Men grinding Oatmeal, two examining Salt'd Geese & Venison and making Pickle. this I am necefsiated to do from the Old and refine it down by boiling as I have no Salt.
Eighteen Men putting down Launch in the Morning - afterwards taking the remainder of frameing of one Flanker to the new plantation. rest variously Engaged - The Men I sent up the River on Friday returned with only 24 lbs of Fish. Sent 5 Canoes of Natives up the River to take different routs to try for Deer - those who came in yesterday too intent on Drinking to trade, only for Liquor"

July 29
" Tuesday Moderate Breezes early AM afterwards a Strong Gale SSE & Sly Clear Weather - towards Evening heavy rain & Sultry
Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Labourers variously engaged - Had a temporary upper hoisting place from Launch errected & other places (injured by the late Deluge) repaired for present use - Sent three Men to set netts, Tent & Hunt around the Marsh - Got Buoys & Beacons ready for Setting - Twelve Men collecting Stones for the use of the Ship. their scarcity is so great we are obliged to go great distances for them before we can get the quantity required by the Captain for Ballast. I can venture to affirm that every Stone that is Scattered about above the surface of the Ground for 5 or 6 Miles distance around us ? (were collected together) I should find a diffiecincy? in quantity necefsary for the Banks of the River facing the New Plantation, which will be the only Means of securing that place which (with piles intermixed) might last for Ages, but if the Commanders of the Ships are permitted to take the vast weight of Stones Annually (they have of late) I expect the Hon'ble Company will be at the expence of Errecting a new building every thirty years. this is from an Observation I have made of the Waste of Banks (where no Stones are laid) during the time of my living in this Country. I have taken much notice were Stones are thinly spread on the Ground up the River & far below us (where they have not been somirily picked up at places near the Factory) the Banks remain firm & little waisted in comparison to the parts where Stones have been picked up & removed from at which places the Banks are waisted & washed away surpizingly - I have tryed the Earth in each place which is of the same weight & quality - This is evident that the Stones being taken therefrom loosins the Earth which is of a light Sandy Nature & washes away with the Strong Currents, undermines the Banks & large Substance? falls down after the thaw in the Spring - as our River is full of Sand shoals & Banks that appear above the surface of the Water at low times of Tide (occaisioned by the Washing before mentioned) which almost stops the pafsage of small Craft. if we had but once orders, many Tons of Sand might easily be collected for Ballast of the Ship and the removal woud materially benefit the Navigation of the River
Traded with the Natives who arrived on Sunday - But it blows too strong for them to set off - and those who went up the River yesterday returned unsuccefsful"

July 30
" Wednesday Var. Breezes from SW to WNW. Cloudy Sultry Weather with thunder Showers
Muskeatoes & Sand flies numerous & troublesome. All hands nearly as before except Carpenter & Afsistants who began errecting the Building on New Plantation - The Englishmen who accompanied Mr Longmoor on Monday returned they afsisted him acrofs Nelson River early Yesterday were the bad weather obliged them to remain till this Morning - All the Musqua Rat River Natives &c who arrived on Sunday set off and in the Evening 5 North River Indians came to the Factory with a few Deer Skins &c &c &c"

July 31
" Thursday Variable Breezes AM PM fresh Breeze S b E Rain - very Sultry
All hands nearly as before except 7 Men who fixed three Beacons in the Marsh in lieu of those carried away by the late deludges. The three Men I sent hunting in the Marsh on Tuesday returned with only two Ducks being the produce of their Hunt. had the Sein drawn in several places in the River. no fish -
In the Evening 3 Natives Arrived with a few Skins which they traded & set off immediately."

Aug. 1 1788
" Friday Var. Breezes from S b E to SW sultry Wea. with Showers of rain.
All hands variously employed - began taking Stock & had the 5 fathom Hole Sand Beacon Set & Buoys put on board the long Boat in order to set tomorrow.
The Natives who came in on Wednesday Evening finished Trade early & went away."

Aug. 2
" Saturday Var. Breezes from SSE to WSW part clear & part Cloudy with showers of rain very sultry flies numerous & troublesome.
Set 5 fathom hole Sand Beacon & Buoys.
Too great depth of Water in the River to finish Launch. rest of Men variously engaged - Packing Furrs &c &c"

Aug. 3
" Sunday Breezes W & W b W part clear and Part cloudy. In the evening rain very sultry & fly's numerous.
Engaged whole day in Trading room. nearly all the Home gaurd Natives were trusted Debt for their Winter Hunt."

Aug. 4
" Monday Breezes NE fine clear Weather
Thirteen Men went in Long Boat &c - set the double Headed Beacon - laid Buoys &c. Carpenter & afsistants finished Launch. The Depth of Water prevented its being carried to the usual lenght. The Ice having cut up the Bed of the River near the Shore in front of the Plantation - Sent two Men up the River to try for fish. rest variously employed
Fifteen Canoes of Home Gaurd Natives set off for their Winters Quarters - the great scarsity of Game obliged them to set off early to support their families"

Aug. 5
" Tuesday Breezes Variable almost round the Compafs part clear & part cloudy
Tradesmen at their respective Occupations - Labourers variously employed chiefly on the New Plantation except 4 Packing Furrs. The Men I sent up the River yesterday returned with only 2 Fish 5 lbs - sent two Natives acrofs the river to Hunt who returned in the Evening says no Birds or Game of any kind is to be seen
Three Canoes of Bungee Natives Arrived with Skins & dried moose Flesh"

Aug. 6
" Wednesday Pleasant Breezes NE fine clear Weather. last night a sharp frost -
Had remainder of Buoys laid the rest of men as yesterday. Traded with the Natives who arrived yesterday. - my distrefs is great for want of Tobacco - the whole of the good being taken Inland - and I am obliged to pick from the Condemn'd what I use which I am affraid will be prejudicial to this trade.
A Native came from the North River with a few skins - traded 105 lbs Moose flesh Dry'd & 55 Fatt."

Aug. 7
" Thursday A Fresh Gale ENE Morning a thick Fogg afterwards Clear.
Men Variously engaged as before - The Natives of Tuesday and the one of Yesterday went away.
Reced 2 Geese & 15 lbs Beaver flesh."

Aug. 8
" Friday Pleasant Breezes NE Morning a thick Fogg afterwards fine & Clear.
Sixteen Men Collecting Stones for Ship. rest as before. Reced [blank] ducks [blank] Plover"

Aug. 9
" Sunday Pleasant Breezes Nly Clear fine Weath. towards Evening Wind varied to the Eastward.
Two Bungee Natives came in Traded & packed up their things in order to set off tomorrow."

Aug. 10[and 11th]
" Monday AM thick fogg afterwards fine Clear & pleasant Breezes NEly
All the Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Sent 7 Men to Haul the Sein. rest variously engaged.
Two Brewing. The Bungee Natives who came in yesterday went away.
Reced 21 lbs Fish [blank] Plover."

Aug. 12
" Tuesday Hazy weather AM Sultry & Calm - Muskeatoes & large flies very troublesome PM Pleasant Breezes NE
All hands as yesterday - Rec'd 13 lbs Fish 3 Ducks 36 Plover"

Aug. 13
" Wednesday Calm Sultry Weather Am afterward Pleasant Breezes NE
All hands as before except Eight collecting Stones. In the Evening I saw a smoak on the Eastern shore - sent four Men in a Boat to enquire the cause. who returned with Mr George Sutherland and two Indians with the Severn & Bay Packet -
Three Canoes of Natives arrived from Nelson River with Green Venison"

Aug. 14
" Thursday part Calm & part light Airs Sly very sultry
All hands nearly as before except four who are drying Venison as I have no Salt to make pickle to preserve it
In the Morning two Canoes of Natives arrived with Green Venison as did two I sent on Monday Hunting returned with Ducks &c. The whole traded with those of yesterday and set off - Received 1069 lbs Venison & 40 Tong."

Aug. 15
" Friday Light Airs and Gentle Breezes SW very Sultry & hazy - Fly's very troublesome.
Took the Patroon & three Men in a Boat to french & Crofs Creek to examine Timber (Trees) & give directions for the Cutting of the same. - The rest as before. Two Natives arrived with Deers flesh which they Traded & set off immediately - 160 lbs Venison."

Aug. 16
" Saturday A fresh Gale SW very sultry AM afterwards variable N b E when it became more cool & pleasant.
Early this morning three Natives came from Churchill who delivered your Honors Packet Brought from England by the King George Capt. William Christopher.
Nearly all hands employed taking down part of Northern Flanker built this Spring in order to remove it to the New Plantation.
Natives arrived with the flesh of eight Deer Wt. 486 lbs and 7 Tongues which they traded with a Beaver Wt. 17 lbs - had the venison cut up for Drying."

Aug. 17
" Sunday A stiff Breeze NE temperate Weather.
Two Men attending the Drying of Venison. Abt. !0 oClock the Severn Sloop appeared in sight and came in to Anchor abreast the Factory in the Afternoon. - Mr ? tells me he spoke with Capt. Christopher yesterday off Cape Tatnum all well."

Aug. 18
" Monday Light Airs & moderate Breezes Variable. Early this Morning took on shore the Severn Cargo and soon after a Vefsel appeared in sight which had made the Companys Signal, sent off the Long Boat to her & when tide permitted the Sloop dropt down to 5 Fathom Hole - All hands nearly as on Saturday except a few preparing Warehouses for the reception of the Ships Cargo - Late in the Evening the Factory Long Boat came up and unloaded. Entered on your Honors Books Mefs J P Whitford and Bird. Writers"

Aug. 19
" Tuesday Variable Breezes Pleasant Weather
The Long Boat Unloaded last night fell down the River to the Ship. The Severn Sloop and Ships Long Boat came up unloaded & in the Nights Tide dropt down the River - Capt William Christopher came to the Factory - One Canoe of Natives arrived with 366 lbs Venison which they traded - Sent part to the Ship & Sloop"

Aug. 20
" Wednesday Variable Breezes Sultry Warm PM showers of Rain
The Sloop came to the Factory as did one of the Long Boats - Sent off two Englishmen and two Natives to examine a dead Body said to be laying on the North Shore of Nelson River. In the Evening several Natives arrived with skins and dried Meat"

Aug. 21
" Thursday Light Airs and Gentle Breezes variable
Unloaded the Sloop and Boat with the Ships Long Boat that came up this Morning and the whole dropt down the River ? Long Boat came in with the Evenin'g Tide - Capt Christopher went on Board
Thirteen Canoes of Natives Arrived"

Aug. 22
" Friday A Strong Gale Variable part clear and part cloudy
Sloop came up but blowed too strong to unload her or for Long Boat to drop down to Ship"

Aug. 23
" Saturday Pleasant Breezes Variable clear fine Weath.
Sloop unloaded and took on board part of the Homeward bound Cargo and dropt down to the Ship. Factory Long Boat went down early and returned with Ships Long Boat and unloaded. Capt Christopher came to the Factory
Four Canoes of Natives Arrived & part traded. The Men I sent on Wednesday to the North Shore of Nelson River returned say they saw the dead Body of a Murdered Indian which they Buried"

Aug. 24
" Sunday Pleasant Breezes SW fine & Clear
The two Long Boats with Sloop came up"

Aug. 25
" Monday Stiff Breezes var. till Noon afterwards light Airs Cloudy part of the day & part clear with thunder & Lightening
This Morning the Churchill Sloop Anchor'd in our River - The Severn (took the homeward bound Cargo on board) with the two Long Boats dropt down the River to Ship"

Aug. 26
" Tuesday Pleasant Breezes Clear fine Weather
The Churchill Sloop with the two Long Boats came to the Factory and part unloaded
Many Natives tookup Debt and in the Afternoon Seventeen Canoes set off"

Aug. 27
" Wednesday part clear and part cloudy with variable Breezes - Showers of Rain last night
The two Long Boats dropt down the River with the Churchill Sloop - Severn Sloop came to the Factory as did the Ships Long Boat
Entered on your Honors Books who landed this day James Sinclair Bricklayer, Peter Goudrie Smith, Hugh Wilson, Tho's Linklater, Harry Hay, John Smith, Robert Taylor, Peter Fidler and John Ward Labourers
Robert Epon? a youth for Mr Ballenden was drowned this day while the Sloop was riding at Anchor"

Aug. 28
" Thursday Wind as Yesterday with pleasant breezes
Discharged from your honors Service Robt. Davey, James Gray, Willm Copeland, Isaac Batt, Willm Bews, James Anderson, Alex Robinson, James Rushland and Abraham Melvin.
Churchill Sloop took in remainder of Homeward bound Cargo and dropt down to the Ship with their Long Boat - Several Natives came in."

Aug. 29
" Friday Wind and Weather as Yesterday.
Sent off Long Boat to Ship with Stones and Entered Mr Southall Surgeon on the Books.
Mr Robinson went on board - Mefs Hudson & Isham will be discharged tomorrow morning they Accompany the Captain to the Ship - pray God send them a safe and speedy pafsage to England. Amen.
Jos. Colen."


1M160 B.239/a/88

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