" A Diary of occurrences at York Factory in Hudsons Bay North America by Jos. Colen Resident.
Commencing Sept. 8th 1789
Ending..........Sept. 7th 1790"


Sept. 8 1789
" Tuesday Nly Breezes Cloudy and thick fogg.
In the Evening Closed the Packet and delivered it to Captain Tunstall
While closing the Packet four Bungee Natives arrived loaded with Furrs."

Sept. 9
" Wednesday Variable Breezes from NE & E to SSW Clear and fine.
All hands variously engaged. - Churchill Sloop dropt down the River and Sailed.
Natives Traded. - Packed the Furrs. - About Noon Mr Wm Tomison delivered up the Keys of the Factory &c and went on board the Severn Sloop accompanied by Mefs Ballenden, Moore and Southall who took leave the Sloop dropt down the River to Ship. -
At 2 PM Captain Tunstall took leave. Sent six Men in Factory Yawl with him and three bundles of Beaver Packed this day. At Midnight the Men returned with Yawl.-
Saw a smoak at french Creek, sent four Men in a Boat who return'd with three Natives say no Game of any sort is stirring"

Sept. 10
" Thursday Breezes SW Clear and fine AM - the latter part of the day Cloudy with heavy Rain. About 11 AM the Severn Sloop was under way and the King George about Noon. and soon after out of sight, pray God send each a safe, speedy and pleasant pafsage to their desired Havens Amen. All hands variously engaged stowing away and unpacking Cargo &c"

Sept. 11
" Friday variable Breezes Cloudy Weather with Rain.
Sent three Men hunting in Marsh, rest nearly as before. Afsisted Natives acrofs the River. The Bungee Indians went away. Shallop came to the House after taking up the lower Buoys &c. In the evening two Homeguard Natives arrived with a few skins."

Sept. 12
" Satuarday Breezes NW by W early AM afterwards a strong Gale of Wind with heavy Rain at times Sleet very Cold and uncumfortable. In the evening a Hurricane of Wind with Sleet and Snow.-
All hands variously engaged in House it being too bad Weather to Work out.
Natives of last night Traded."

Sept. 13
" Sunday Variable Breezes from NW to N
Mefs Thomas and Sutherland set off to Tent and hunt in Marsh during the Geese flying. Mr Cook with three Men and four Natives set off to Tent and Hunt at the Fourteens River. Five Men afsisting them in Boat.- Sent James Hall and three Men in an Inland Canoe up to Steel River to examine for Timber. The Natives of Friday went away. and in the Evening two others arrived.

Sept. 14
" Monday stiff Breezes NNE part clear and part Cloudy sharp freezing Weather at times Sleet and Snow.
Sent fourteen Men to the Woods to raft home Timber &c. Nine Men to the Eastward five in the Marsh, four up the River in search of Timber All the rest variously engaged.
Natives of last night Traded and went away and in the evening an old Indian and a Lad came in with a few Deer Skins"

Sept. 15
" Tuesday very variable Breezes from NE to SE and SW part Clear and part Cloudy. Early in the morning freezing Sharp and Cold PM more Moderate.
Saw a smoak at French Creek, sent four Men in a Boat, who return'd with the four Men that afsisted Mr Cook and Natives to the fourteens Goose Tent. they were obliged to leave their own Boat the Sea being too rough and was dangerous for them to venture around with it. Rest of Men as before. Natives of Yesterday Traded and went away"

Sept. 16
" Wednesday Variable Breezes all round the Compafs part Clear and part Cloudy. -
Men as before"

Sept. 17
" Thursday Nly Breezes Cloudy & Cold with Sleet.
Sent up Stores to New Plantation. - afterward had the Shallop laid in her old Winters Station near the Old Battery. rest of Men not employed on these duties nearly as before"

Sept. 18
" Friday Stiff Breezes Sly part clear and part Cloudy, a severe frost this Morning & very Cold.
Sent four Men to the fourteens River for Boat left there. - The Men came from the Woods with eight floats of Timber and firewood. they were obliged to leave two Rafts up the River, the Shoals being so numerous as to prevent their pafsage. - Rest of Men as before. One Man came from Mr Sutherlands Tent with a few Geese and Ducks."

Sept. 19
" Satuarday Breezes variable from N to NW part Clear and part Cloudy
Sent five Men in Boat (up the River) for Rafts left Yesterday who return'd. The Men who went to the fourteens yesterday return'd with Boat and a few Geese. Rest of Men variously employed"

Sept. 20
" Sunday Light Breezes NW Clear fine & Warm
Two Natives came in with a few Deer Skins which they Traded and went away"

Sept. 21
" Monday NE Breezes Cloudy & Cold
Hunters and those from the Factory as before. All hands at home afishing and carrying Wood up the Bank.
Late in the evening James Hall and Men return'd from Steel and Sumattaway Rivers, say very little Timber is to be found, the nearest is between forty and fifty Miles from the Factory, and so scattered that it will require much Labour to get it to the Banks edge."

Sept. 22
" Tuesday a strong Gale of Wind Ely Cloudy with Rain.
Too bad Weather to Work out, all hands variously engaged in House. - Delivered out Beaver Caps Mittens and Coats to Men, & Leather for Toggies &c to all the young hands. Two Homeguard Natives came in with a few skins, dry'd Meat &c which they Traded.
In the afternoon saw a smoak at French Creek, when the Wind abated, sent five Men in a Boat acrofs the River. return'd with a few Geese &c from the fourteens River Hunters"

Sept. 23
" Wednesday Wind NNW Cloudy and foggy with mizzling Rain P.M. Clear and fine.
Sent five Men in a Boat to the fourteens River for Geese. - Tradesmen at their respective occupations. all the rest variously engaged. Hunters as before"

Sept. 24
" Thursday NE Breezes Cloudy Weather with a continued heavy Rain.
Too bad Weather to Work out. all hands variously employed in House. making Tents out of the No. 2 Canvas (which answer exceedingly well for the Wooders or Hunters) I have not sufficient Leather for Tents required this next ensueing Winter.
Mr Sutherland &c came to the Factory, says no Geese or Game of any kind is stirring"

Sept. 25
" Friday Wind and Weather nearly as Yesterday and Men's employ the same"

Sept. 26
" Satuarday NE Breeze Cloudy and Cold with Snow
Five Men cutting and collecting Grafs for Inland Canoes, others preparing and digging ground to lay them in during the Winter. The latenefs of the Season obliges me to give up all thought of sending away one to the Northward this Year. - No Musqua Rat Tiver Natives visited York this fall which convinces the Canadians are again in their Country.
The rest of Men variously engaged"

Sept. 27
" Sunday AM variable Breezes from NW to NE part clear and part Cloudy. PM fresh Gales NW Cloudy with Rain Sleet and Snow. -
Divine Service. Mr Sutherland &c went to his Tent"

Sept. 28
" Monday Moderate Breezes NE Sharp freezing Weather.
Sent five Men to the Eastward for Geese. Had the Launch taken down and stowed away. thirty Men preparing to leave the Factory for the Winter - Rest variously employed"

Sept. 29
" Tuesday Stiff Breezes variable from NW to N part clear and part Cloudy AM Light Snow and freezing sharp. - PM Squally.
Sent five Men to Tent and cut down Timber &c near Steel River. Six Men afsisting them in three Inland Canoes, and take up Provisions for the Winter. - Also ten Men went in two Boats with Provisions to twelve Mile and Rain Bow Island for the Wooders who are to Work there. - These last return'd in the evening. Sent three Men to afsist Mr Sutherland with Tent &c to the Factory. the Geese having left this quarter.
Also sent three Men in Boat to French Creek Hunting Tent and to bring home Mr Cook and party who are waiting acrofs the River."

Sept. 30
" Wednesday A Sharp frost AM a fresh Gale Nly. PM Breezes from the same quarter.
All hands at home variously employed - The Men I sent acrofs the River yesterday not returning sent five Men in Boat to see after them, return'd in the evening with part of the English and Indian Hunters."

Oct. 1 1789
" Thursday Sly Breezes Cloudy moderate Weather AM afterwards a great fall of Snow.
All hands at home variously employed. fifteen Hunters and fourteen Wooders preparing to leave the Factory for the Winter Season. - The Provisions served out to nine hunters and twelve Wooders to Christmas is this day entered in Provision Book, but as Flour Pease &c is too weighty to be haul'd long distances on Sleds, sufficient is sent of these articles to last them the whole Season which accounts for the quantity being expended in said Books. Two Natives arrived with a few Skins & dryed Meat, they came purposely for a Gun. the one he purchased here about a month ago having burst. this is I am sorry to say the second since the departure of the Ship."

Oct. 2
" Friday Moderate Breezes Nly Cloudy Weather with Sleet and Snow
All hands nearly as before - Mr Cook &c came from the Goose Tent paid Natives for hunting - Sent five Men in Boats with Provisions to the Woods for Winters supply."

Oct. 3
" Satuarday Variable light Breezes from W by S to E by S Cloudy moderate Weather
Sent three Men in Boat with Provisions who are to Winter at Ten Shilling Creek. rest of Men as before - The old green Yawl being so much injured at Ship time loading her with Stones and the bad usage reced by Sailors who shattered her Keel and Timbers to pieces renders her dangerous for any one to venture in and the Shipwright says she cannot be repaired. had her broke up.
The two Natives that came in on Thursday went away"

Oct. 4
" Sunday fresh Gales Sly fine & Clear Weather.
12 Hunters preparing to leave the Factory tomorrow."

Oct. 5
" Monday AM Wind and Weather as Yesterday PM Breezes Nly Cloudy and thick fogg.
Sent Mr Sutherland and two Men to Tent at Pennycutway River, Isaac Batt and two Men two Twenty Mile Creek, Robert Tennant and two Men to Ten Shilling Creek, James Bird and two Men to French Creek, Mr Cook and two Men to the Eastward, to Tent and Hunt for the Winter Season. All the rest of the Men preparing foundations for Buildings. - The Shipwright began preparing the framing of a new Boat."

[In the margin]

"Hunters

Mr Sutherland
James Banks
Alex Thompson
-----
Isaac Batt
John Brown
And. Copeland
-----
Rob. Tennant
John Wood
Tho. Brown
-----
Mr James Bird
John Mellam
Alex Johnson
-----
Mr Cook
Will Smith
Benj Bruce"
-----

Oct. 6
" Tuesday Easterly Breezes fine clear and pleasant Weather.
All the Men nearly as before. - Those who afsisted the Hunters to Twenty Mile Creek yesterday return'd"

Oct. 7
" Wednesday Light Airs and moderate pleasant Breezes Ely clear warm weather.
Sent off Nich. Spence Pateroon with eleven Men to the Woods to Tent for the Winter, - Six Men afsisting them. the rest variously engaged on New Plantation. - The Men who afsisted the Wooders return'd.
Late in the evening three Natives arrived with dryed Meat and a few Skins."

Oct. 8
" Thursday Light Airs Sly Clear and fine till the Evening when sprung up Nly Breezes.
Men as before
The Natives of Yesterday Traded and went away. The Hunters at Ten Shilling Creek came home with a few Fish."

Oct. 9
" Friday AM Breezes Ely freezing afterwards light Airs variable to N by W Clear pleasant Wea.
Mr Thomas - Self with four Men and all the Natives afsisted by Ten Shilling Creek Hunters haul'd the Sein in various parts of the River. our Labour produced only three small Fish. Rest of Men as before."

Oct. 10
" Satuarday Light Breezes ESE fine Clear and pleasant.
All hands engaged on New Plantation. Natives collecting Stones for Foundations for Buildings."

Oct. 11
" Sunday fresh Breezes Sly part foggy and part clear. Divine Service."

Oct. 12
" Monday Wind and Weather nearly as before
Fifteen Hunters and seventeen Wooders at their respective Tents. all the rest engaged on New Plantation except two hunting."

Oct. 13
" Tuesday Wind as before very fine and pleasant
Men nearly as before. Began the framing of the NW Curtain."

Oct. 14
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as before till Noon when sprung up a fresh Gale Ely Cloudy thick and Cold.
Men nearly as before. - Had all the vegetables taken up for Winters supply. sent three Natives up the River in Canoe to the Hunters at Pennycutaway for the produce of their Hunt."

Oct. 15
" Thursday Fresh Breezes Ely Cloudy & foggy
All hands nearly as before."

Oct. 16
" Friday Wind, Weather and Mens employ the same
The Natives sent to Pennycutway on Wednesday return'd with 84 lbs of Fish. - Mr Sutherland writes word, the Beef served out to him appears in a worse state than any he tasted the preceeding Year. that neither himself or Men can eat any. Indeed we find it very offensive on the opening of the Casks & the people make great Complaints.
The Hunters came from Ten Shilling Creek with a few Fish return'd to their Tent."

Oct. 17
" Satuarday Moderate Breezes NW by N Cloudy with light Snow.
Men nearly as before. Finished foundation for the NW Curtain and Magazine."

Oct. 18
" Sunday Variable Breezes from NNW to SSE Cloudy Weather with Hail and Snow alternately. - Divine Service."

Oct. 19
" Monday A strong Gale Ely Cloudy Weather with Hail, Rain, Sleet and Snow alternately. All hands when Weather permitted nearly as last Week."

Oct. 20
" Tuesday Fresh Breezes variable from E to N sharp freezing Weather.
Men as before."

Oct. 21
" Wednesday Fresh Breezes Nly sharp freezing Weather.
Yard cleaned and Tools collected together for the Winter. - Had all the Beef (Casks) examined that came out of the last Ship. - part of the Casks on opening we find very offensive. a few again good looking tho very small Pieces. The Pickle of the former resembled stagnated Blood in a Sink in the state of putrifaction. It appears, not only to me, but others who saw it, that the Beef was salted in the Casks and the Blood was never drawn from it, which neglect and for sake of a very trifling expence (to the Contractor) of adding fresh Pickle, great part of the Beef sent out is spoiled which if eaten might be the ruin of many good Men, its baleful effects was sufficiently evinced last Season among us. - Apprehensive of the same Calamity makes me proceed with caution this, therfore had all the Meat cleaned, fresh Pickle made and put thereto and stowed away. - Part of the frame of Curtain taken up to the new Plantation. Two Natives came in with a few skins."

Oct. 22
" Thursday variable light Breezes from N to SSW Seasonable pleasant Weather. Ice in the River. - Men as before.
The Natives of Yesterday Traded and went away"

Oct. 23
" Friday Variable light Breezes from SSW to NE part clear and part Cloudy.
Men nearly as before."

Oct. 24
" Satuarday Light Airs and gentle Breezes ENE Cloudy moderate Weather.
Early this morning two Men came from Mr Sutherland's Tent at Pennycutway for fish Hooks. The River being clear of Ice sent them away with three others in large Canoe. Had the remaining part frame of Curtain taken up to new Plantation. Laid up Boats for the Winter."

Oct. 25
" Sunday AM Light Breezes E by S part clear and part Cloudy - PM variable stiff Breezes from SSE to SSW with light Snow. towards evening Wind ESE - Divine Service. Late in the evening the Men I sent up the River yesterday return'd with a good supply of Methy Wt 200 lbs (caught by Mr Sutherland) a few days allowance left with the Men at the Woods"

Oct. 26
" Monday Ely Breezes Cloudy with Sleet and Snow.
All hands nearly as last Week. - The River being clear of Ice, Mr Thomas accompanied by two Natives went in a large Canoe to French Creek for the produce of their Hunt. - return'd with two Beaver and a few fine Trout. Began putting up the frame of Curtain."

Oct. 27
" Tuesday Breeze Nly sharp Cloudy Weather towards evening Wind varied SSE with light Snow. - All hands nearly as before."

Oct. 28
" Wednesday Light Airs Easterly Cloudy Seasonable Weather.
Men as before - Mr Thomas with three Indians in large Canoe, went to Ten Shilling Creek for the produce of their Hunt, return'd with 26 small Fish."

Oct. 29
" Thursday Breezes ESE Cloudy with drizzling Rain and Sleet.
Men nearly as before"

Oct. 30
" Friday Early in the Morning Sly Breezes very mild. at 9 AM it varied almost suddenly blowing a stiff Breeze Nly very sharp Cloudy Weather - PM part clear and part Cloudy with a fresh Gale. Evening a strong Gale NW - The most sudden change of Weather I ever before noticed in one day. This morning the Thermometer being up at 40° and at eight oClock in the evening below 0°. Men nearly as before, variously engaged."

Oct. 31
" Satuarday Strong Gales NNW Cloudy Cold and freezing - drifting Snow - PM more moderate Gales. - Much heavy Ice in the River. All hands engaged in House."

Nov. 1 1789
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday Afternoon Ice the same."

Nov. 2
" Monday Wind and Weather the same
Mens employ as last Week.
Observed an Eclipse of the Moon over the lower part
began----18 Min past 5 PM
End------27 Min past 7"

Nov. 3
" Tuesday AM Breezes NW by N Clear Seasonable Weather. - very heavy Ice driving in the River - Mens employ nearly the same"

Nov. 4
" Wednesday Light Breezes NE Clear & fine
Men as before"

Nov. 5
" Thursday Light Airs Ely part clear and part Cloudy PM variable light Breezes
Men as before"

Nov. 6
" Friday light Airs variable from E to S moderately Mild. Cloudy with Snow. -
Men as before. Two Men came from the Woods for Mr Thomas - John Thompson having rece'd a hurt by a Tree falling on him - The Men says the River Ice is fast so low as the seven Mile Island."

Nov. 7
" Satuarday Nly Breezes clear sharp Weather
The Men of yesterday return'd to the Woods accompanied by Mr Thomas and two Men with Dogs and Sleds. - Rest of Men as before"

Nov. 8
" Sunday AM Breezes SSW Cloudy PM light Breezes with light Snow SE by E.
About Noon saw two Men crofsing the River coming towards the Factory. hailed them with a speaking Trumpet not to venture farther, they return'd to their Tent. Late in the evening two Men came from the upper Woods near Steel River. These poor fellows have been in a sad situation ever since they left the factory. having scarcely any Victuals to eat, except Flour, Oatmeal &c. The Meat served them being out of the same Cask with Mr Sutherlands (before mentioned) which they say was so bad they could not eat. - It gives me pain to mention these circumstances. but their facts must convince the Honble Committee that our complaints are not groundlefs and I am apprehensive our sufferings will be great as every appearance of a scarsity of Game is around."

Nov. 9
" Monday Much Snow last night & continued till Noon this day. mild for the Season of the Year. afterwards fresh Breezes Nly raw Cold and Cloudy.
Men nearly as last Week - Late in the even'g Wm Sinclair, one of the Men who accompanied Mr Thomas on Satuarday, return'd from Pennycutway. - Alexander Thompson having met with an accident at Mr Sutherland's Tent. Mr Thomas remains there to attend him till People are sent to haul the Lame Man to the Factory."

Nov. 10
" Tuesday NE light Breezes Cloudy
Sent two Men with Dogs and Sleds to bring home Alex Thompson from Pennycutway hunting Tent and James Sinclair Bricklayer to supply his place as Hunter. - The Men who came from Steel River on Sunday returnd to their Tent. Rest as before. - In the afternoon John Thompson was brought from the Woods having receiv'd an accident by the falling of a Tree as mentioned the 6th instant."

Nov. 11
" Wednesday Fresh Breezes NNW Clear and sharp PM variable Wly
Men nearly as before"

Nov. 12
" Thursday Wly Breezes Clear and sharp at noon SSW. Last night or early this morning the River Ice set fast.
Men nearly as before."

Nov. 13
" Friday fresh Breezes W by S Clear sharp Weather
Late last night Mr Thomas came from Pennycutway River, left Alex Thompson and Men at the seven Mile Island, the Dogs tiring were unable to proceed farther. - Sent four Men to bring the lame Man to the factory who return'd about 4 oClock this morning. - Rest of Men nearly as before except 4 Men in Sick list. - Shipwright left of Working at Boat on account of the severity of the Weather. - He appears a very slow Workman, and is much at a lofs in the executing the duties he engaged to perform. He has been nearly six Weeks with an afsistant and only got her Keel and part of the Timbers fixed as yet, which will make it a very expensive Boat before its Furnished."

Nov. 14
" Satuarday Wly Breezes Clear sharp Weather
Men as sick nearly as before, except one Man whom I sent with Dogs and Sleds to French Creek. and the Shipwright afsisting Carpenters"

Nov. 15
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday PM light Airs. - Divine Service.
The Man I sent yesterday to French Creek return'd with two of the Hunters with a few Fish no Rabbitts or Partridges. - Two Men also came from the Eastward hunting Tent with a few Rabbitts and Fish. - No Partridges seen in that quarter this Season - Sent two Men to Ten Shilling Creek who return'd with a few fish. The whole quantity of Provisions brought home by all the Hunters this day (the produce of a Months Hunt) is barely sufficient for two days allowance for all the Men at the factory."

Nov. 16
" Monday Light Breezes W by N Clear sharp Weather PM Cloudy and thick drift blowing strong.
All the Hunters of yesterday went to their respective Tents. - Sent John Thompson to the Wooders Tent for his Bedding &c. - Mr Thomas Surgeon went to Ten Shilling Creek to see John Ward who is ill. Three Men in sick list at the factory. Had a victualling Hole cut in the River Ice and Beacons set acrofs to the opposite Shore."

Nov. 17
" Tuesday Fresh Breezes Wly Clear seasonable Weather. Men nearly as last week. - Sent three Natives to look at some Beaver Houses said to be at the six Mile Island."

Nov. 18
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday.
? Mens employ the same. Sent John Thompson ? the Hunters at French Creek"

Nov. 19
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterday till ? when the Wind varied to SE Cloudy with light? Snow.
Men employ nearly as before. - Mr Thomas and Wm Sinclair went up the River to hunt Partridges and to sleep out a few nights."

Nov. 20
" Friday Much Snow fell last night and is deep ? the ground this morning with a SE Wind which shifted NE with fresh Breezes and drift. - AM Cloudy. - Noon Clear. - PM Cloudy & thick drift. Men as before - Mr Thomas &c who went up the? River yesterday return'd with 12 Partridges. - This? we reckon a capital Hunt Birds and all? kinds of Game is so scarce"

Nov. 21
" Satuarday AM Breezes SW Clear and ? PM Cloudy mild and Calm
Men nearly as before. - Two Men came from the wooders Tent as did one Man from each of our hunting Tents with a few Fish and Rabbitts. say ? Partridges are seen. Not sufficient brought home by all the Hunters to supply one days Provisions for all hands."

Nov. 22
" Sunday Variable light Airs all round the Compafs Cloudy and moderately mild.
The Hunters and Wooders of Yesterday went to their respective Tents except Mr Cook who waits the making of a Leather Tent in order to remove towards Ship River and Cape Tatnum."

Nov. 23
" Monday Light Breezes SSE Clear and fine, All hands nearly as last Week variously employed. - The Natives I sent out to take a Beaver House last Wednesday return'd with only one Beaver."

Nov. 24
" Tuesday Cloudy Weather with variable light Airs and Snow.
Men and Sick nearly as before. - Mr Cook and one Man set off to the Eastward to Hunt at Ship River and Cape Tatnum.
Mr Thomas set of to see Mr Sutherland at Pennycutway who is ill."

Nov. 25
" Wednesday Wind SE Cloudy and very mild for the Season of the Year.
Men and sick nearly as before. - Sent two Natives to Pennycutway River to take a Beaver House."

Nov. 26
" Thursday Variable light Airs from SE to E Cloudy with Snow, remarkable mild for the season Men as before."

Nov. 27
" Friday Wind and Weather as Yesterday till noon when it varied Nly Cloudy at times light Snow
Mens employ nearly the same."

Nov. 28
" Satuarday Wind and Weather nearly as the latter part of yesterday and Mens employ the same. One Man came from each of the hunting Tents near the factory. - The produce of all the Hunters, Indians and English is no more than 31 Rabbitts 38 Partridges and 70 lbs of Fish."

Nov. 29
" Sunday Light Airs SW Cloudy Weather Divine Service.
The Hunters of Yesterday went to their respective Tents. - Late in the evening Mr Thomas return'd from Mr Sutherland."

Nov. 30
" Monday Light Breezes variable from S to W and back to E Cloudy Weather.
Men nearly as last Week
The Men I sent to Pennycutway River last Wednesday return'd with two Beaver."

Dec.1 1789
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday and Mens employ the same.
Mr Cook return'd from the Eastward says he has not seen ten Birds during his absence."

Dec. 2
" Wednesday AM Clear and sharp with SW Breezes PM Cloudy and mild.
Men nearly as before. Early this Morning set off to the Wooders Tent near Rainbow Island where I appointed Mr Sutherland & Tho. Robertson Pateroon at Steel River to meet me.
The scarcity of Timber is become so great it is attended with much difficulty to collect sufficient to keep the Carpenters employed. All the Islands and shores for Miles up the River have been thoroughly searched and the principal and best Wood collected Years ago. - The few Pieces found lies scattered a distance from each other nearly fifty miles from the factory, and part of which are obliged to be haul'd on Sleds nearly two Miles to the Banks of the River after they are cut which is a laborious duty. yet I hope with the afsistance of God and our own exertions we shall be able to collect sufficient Timber to finish our Buildings. - Shou'd any quantity be wanted at a future period. I know not where it is to be got without going a considerable long distance for it.
The scarcity of fire Wood is also great, the nearest Wooders Tent this Year is fifteen miles distant from the House. - All the intermediate space near the River has been cut down and appears as barren plains with small Trees scattered here and there. and the chief part cut down these two last years is Poplar which is very weighty when green and ungain for carriage or rafting.
I am sorry to hear the bad succefs of the twenty Mile Creek Hunters who have not kill'd sufficient Provisions to supply 3 Men 7 days allowance since their absence from the factory (58 days). Mr Sutherland hath been more fortunate at Pennycutway River in killing a quantity of Methy Fish which has been a great help to us this Season - Mr Sutherland says none are now to be caught and very few Partridges seen."

Dec. 3
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterdy afternoon
Gave orders for the Hunters at twenty mile Creek to remove near Rainbow Island where appears the Tracks of many Rabbitts. after giving directions for the future procedure of Wooders return'd to the Factory. - Mens employ at the House as before."

Dec. 4
" Friday Light Airs and moderate Breezes SW by W Clear and fine.
Men nearly as before"

Dec. 5
" Satuarday fresh Breezes N by W sharp Cloudy Weather towards evening moderate with light Snow.
Men as before Mr Cook went to his Tent and Mr Thomas accompanied two Natives to look for Beaver up the fourteens River. - One Man came from each of the 3 Hunting Tents near the factory with 116 lbs of fish 14 Rabbitts & 46 Partridges"

Dec. 6
" Sunday Light Airs Nly Cloudy moderate Wea.
The Hunters of yesterday went to their respective Tents. - Two Men came from the Woods accompanied by Isaac Batt from twenty mile Creek where he met with an accident by scalding himself. The other two Hunters remain at the Wooders Tent till Christmas"

Dec. 7
" Monday AM Breezes NW by W Cloudy and raw Cold PM fresh Breezes W by S.
Sent off the Wooders who accompanied Isaac Batt Yesterday. - Rest of Men nearly as before."

Dec. 8
" Tuesday Variable Breezes NW Cloudy and drift raw Cold. - Men as before."

Dec. 9
" Wednesday NW Breezes clear and sharp
Men as before. Mr Cook came home with his bedding. - No Game of any kind stirring to the Eastward. - Mr Thomas and Natives return'd unsuccefsful"

Dec. 10
" Thursday Early AM Wind as Yesterday afterwards very Sly part clear and part Cloudy.
Sent two hunting up the River. Three Englishmen and three Natives hunting around the House. return'd without seeing a Bird. Rest of Men as before."

Dec. 11
" Friday Wind and Weather as the latter part of Yesterday. - Mens employ the same - The Hunters sent up the River return'd with 7 Partridges. Those around the House unsuccefsful."

Dec. 12
" Satuarday Sly Breezes Clear and fine
Men nearly as before. One Man came from each of the hunting Tents near the Factory with a few Partridges and Rabbitts. - As did one Man from the Wooders Tent for Dogs to afsist Mr Sutherland home with Bedding &c at Christmas"

Dec. 13
" Sunday AM Wind and Weather as Yesterday PM Cloudy with light Snow very mild for the season of the year. - Divine Service"

Dec. 14
" Monday Wind Nly Cloudy. Snow last night.
Men variously employed at House. Wooders and Hunters as before."

Dec. 15
" Tuesday Variable Breezes from N to SE by E Cloudy thick Weather. - Men as before."

Dec. 16
" Wednesday AM variable Winds Ely Clear PM Cloudy with Nly Breezes and Cold.
Men nearly as before. Sent Mr Sinclair and three Indians to hunt on the Islands up the River and to sleep out a few nights."

Dec. 17
" Thursday Nly Breezes drifting thick Cold Weat.
Men nearly as before. - Had a larger Sled made to haul Timber and fire Wood."

Dec. 18
" Friday SW by W Breezes Clear sharp Weather
Men nearly as before."

Dec. 19
" Satuarday Stiff Breezes SSW Cloudy PM drift. - Men as before.
Twelve Men came from the Wooders Tent for the Xmas holidays - Wm Sinclair and Indians return'd as did one man from each of the hunting Tents near the factory - Served out 14 days Christmas Allowance of Provisions to all the Men."

Dec. 20
" Sunday Light Airs Sly Cloudy with Snow very mild for the Season. - Service for the day. Hunters went to their respective Tents. Ordered those at Ten Shilling Creek to bring home their Bedding who return'd in the evening, since their absence the 5 Oct. they have not procured 30 days Provisions for three Men the scarcity of Game is so great around us."

Dec. 21
" Monday Variable light Airs from S to E very Mild Cloudy Weather.
Carpenters at work on new plantation Taylors for Trade. Cooper and Smith for Inland Labourers cutting firewood.
Mr Sutherland and Hunters came from Pennycutway River hunting Tent, as did the Wooders from Steel River."

Dec. 22
" Tuesday Light Airs Ely Cloudy mild Weather
Men as before."

Dec. 23
" Wednesday Light Breezes SW first part Clear latter Cloudy. Men as before."

Dec. 24
" Thursday Sly Breezes Cloudy and raw Cold thick rimy Weather.
All hands engaged carrying Timber to Saw pit. All the Hunters came home with their bedding."

Dec. 25
" Friday Nly Breezes Cloudy Weather
Service suitable to the day"

Dec. 26
" Satuarday Wind and Weather nearly the same as Yesterday.
All the Men at their holiday diversions."

Dec. 27
" Sunday SSW Breezes Cloudy Weather
Service performed suitable to the day."

Dec. 28
" Monday Wind variable from S to E Cloudy PM Snow
Men as before. Mefs Cook and Wiegand went up the River hunting."

Dec. 29
" Tuesday Light Breezes Nly Cloudy and drifting
The Hunters of Yesterday return'd unsuccefsful. Men the same."

Dec. 30
" Wednesday NW Breezes Cloudy and Cold PM more mild. Men the same."

Dec. 31
" Thursday SW Breezes Cloudy Weather with Snow.
Sent Men with large Sled for Boat left at ten Shilling Creek in the fall. - Had Ware Houses overhauled, and examined Provisons find not sufficient to last out March including the unwholesome Beef and Pork left of last year which will oblige me to begin the new year with short allowance. - And to keep provision for Inland Servants. - I do not know how to manage.
Provisions procured since (the departure of the ship to this day, say from) the 1st September viz.
385 made Geese (ie. Geese and Ducks)
426 lbs of dryed Venison
1636 lbs of Fish
142 lbs of Beaver and porcupine flesh
48 lbs of Fatt
308 Rabbitts
1036 Partridges
In the whole only 30 26/57 days allowance for 57 men"

"January 1790"

Jan. 1 1790
" Friday Stiff Breezes Nly Cloudy Weather
Men finished their holiday diversions. The usual annual Toast was drunk by all."

Jan. 2
" Satuarday Nly Breezes part Clear and part Cloudy severe Cold
Eleven Hunters, ten Sawyers and fourteen Wooders preparing to leave the factory on Monday. Rest of Men variously engaged."

Jan. 3
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday
Prayers"

Jan. 4
" Monday Wind and Weather nearly the same
Sent ten Men to Saw Timber at Steel River also James Bird and Two Men to Hunt at Pennycutway &c to supply them with fresh Provisions. - One Man and five Dogs afsisted with? their things. - Sent four Men to Tent and Hunt on the Islands up the River to supply the Wooders with provisions, who are to set off tomorrow. - Sent four Men to Tent and Hunt at Crofs Creek. - James Hall and one Man preparing Tools to Saw? at the factory during the Winter Season. the former was so disabled by the Scurvy last Year as to render uncapable to walk any distance, and thro' his intemperance has nearly lost his eyesight. - Taylors at work Trade, Smith, Cooper and two Men for Inland. One Man making nets. - Two in sick list - Three grinding Oatmeal and otherwise engaged being unfit for Labourious duties. - The rest hauling sawed Timber Boards &c to New Plantation"

Jan. 5
" Tuesday fresh Breezes Sly clear and fine AM latter part of the day Wly more Cloudy.
Sent of 13 Men to haul firewood and Timber to Banks edge near Rainbow Island. J. Hall and afsistant at the saw Pit. - Isaac Batt added to sick list. - Rest of Men as Yesterday."

Jan. 6
" Wednesday Nly Breezes Cloudy Weather
Men nearly as before."

Jan. 7
" Thursday Wly Breezes Clear and fine
Men as before"

Jan. 8
" Friday AM fresh Breezes Nly Cloudy & drift PM strong Gales from the same quarter.
Men as before."

Jan. 9
" Satuarday Variable stiff Breezes from NW to W part clear and part Cloudy. Men as before. One Man came from each of the hunting Tents. ? the whole produce of four Hunters from the house, three Indians, and 11 Men at hunting Tents only 49 Partridges killed in 9 days - Gloomy prospects these, having 57 mouths to feed and no game stirring. - A firm reliance on the all ? disposer? of Events who fosters us as he sees occaision?, will I hope relieve all our necefsities in due? time. His bountiful goodnefs preserving ? in health gives me comfort in our present situation, especially when I look back on our sufferings two seasons past makes me doubly thankful."

Jan. 10
" Sunday Light Breezes NNW part clear and part Cloudy. performed Service for the day.
The Hunters of Yesterday went to their Tents And the Man and Dogs who afsisted the Sawyers on Monday return'd say several of the Men ? much frozen before they reach'd Steel River. and that he did not see a Partridge in his Journey up and down."

Jan. 11
" Monday Variable Breezes from N to NW part Clear and part Cloudy. - Men as last Week."

Jan. 12
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday
Mens employ nearly the same. Sent two Men and Dogs with Provisions to Steel River &c. One Man came from French Creek hunting Tent. says no Game is seen in that quarter."

Jan. 13
" Wednesday Wind Weather and Mens employ the same. The Hunter of Yesterday went away. gave orders to remove Tents &c to Stoney Rivers"

Jan. 14
" Thursday Light Breezes W by S Clear Weather
Mens employ the same as before."

Jan. 15
" Friday Variable Breezes all round the Compafs Cloudy with Snow at times thick drift. - Men as before."

Jan. 16
" Saturday Stiff Breezes NW clear sharp Weather.
Men nearly as before. One Man came from the eight? Mile hunting Tent. Only 40 Partridges killed by all the Hunters this Week."

Jan. 17
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday.
The Hunter of Yesterday went to his Tent. - The Men and Dogs who set out on Tuesday last return'd with one Man from the Woods for Medicines (for the Sick) and Provisions."

Jan. 18
" Monday Wind and Weather as before. blowing fresh part of the day - Men nearly as last Week. - Two came from Stoney Rivers hunting Tent much frozen. one of them John Thompson, will I am apprehenseive, be disabled a long time. his nose is almost froze solid - They say no Partridges are to be seen."

Jan. 19
" Tuesday Wind and Weather nearly as before till towards evening when it varied more Wly.
Men as before. - One of the Hunters of Yesterday with the Wooder of Sunday went to their Tents."

Jan. 20
" Wednesday Weather as before with WSW Wind
Sent off Men and Dogs with Provisions for Sawyers &c at Steel River."

Jan. 21
" Thursday Breezes Wly Cloudy thick Weather
Men as before."

Jan. 22
" Friday Weather more Clear Wind and Mens employ as before"

Jan. 23
" Satuarday Light Breezes SW Clear and fine
One Man came from Stoney River and one from the eight Mile hunting Tent with a few Partridges"

Jan. 24
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday
The Hunters went to their respective Tents. One Native came to the House says his father Mother together with two other large families are starving and are not able to reach the House without afsistance"

Jan. 25
" Monday Strong Gales Ely very thick & drifting
Men nearly as last Week. - Three in the Sick list
The Man and dogs return'd from Steel River. Sent off the Indian of Yesterday with provisions to his friends - One of the homeguard Natives accompanied him to afsist the disabled Indians"

Jan. 26
" Tuesday fresh Breezes Ely and variable N Clear and fine. - Men and Sick nearly as before."

Jan. 27
" Wednesday Nly Breezes part clear & part Cloudy
Men nearly as before. - Man and Dogs set off with Provisions to Steel River. - Two families of Indians came in, part of those mentioned on Sunday - part paid Debts and traded several Snow shoe frames."

Jan. 28
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterday Men the same"

Jan. 29
" Friday Wind, Weather and Men the same"

Jan. 30
" Satuarday Breezes Nly Cloudy and drift
Men as before - Two Men came from the Wooders and two from the eight mile Tents for Provisions also two came from the Eastward hunting Tent with a few Partridges.
The remaining Indians mentioned on Wednesday came to the House in a wretched plight. it was with difficulty they reached the factory, notwithstanding the afsistance afforded? them at the different Tents up the River. tell me they had not tasted any victuals for ten days, before they fell in with the Englishmen, and that it would been impofsible for them to survive much longer had it not been for their kindnefs. Say no Game of any kind is to be seen, and such scarcity they never before heard of. - Paid debt in part."

Jan. 31
" Sunday Breezes Nly Clear and fine PM varied Sly
The Wooders and three of the Hunters went to their respective Tents.
Sent three Indians to Hunt acrofs the Noth River. - The Natives that came in yesterday shew they had been driven to extremities by their drefsing a dog (that had lain dead on the River some Weeks) and eating it as we have no fresh Meat of any kind in the House to give them."

Feb. 1 1790
" Monday SW Breezes Clear asnd fine the first part of the day, the latter part strong Gales Wly with thick drift.
Mefs Thomas, Sutherland with Wm Sinclair and one Man, Dogs and Sleds set off towards Cape Tatnum to examine that quarter for Game. - Rest nearly as before. - Robert Hudson Writer very bad with the Scurvy - The first and only instance I have seen of an Officer being afflicted with that disorder, brought on entirely thro' his inactivity.
The Man and Dogs &c employed conveying Provisions up to Steel River return'd"

Feb. 2
" Tuesday Light Airs SSW part clear and part Cloudy and mild. Men as before."

Feb. 3
" Wednesday Wind variable AM part clear part Cloudy and mild - PM Gales Nly Clear & Cold.
Men nearly as before. Engaged packing & sorting Flints for inland."

Feb. 4
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterday afternoon. - Mens employ & Sick as before. In the evening the Natives I sent acrofs the North River hunting, return'd with 58 Partridges."

Feb. 5
" Friday AM Breezes NW Clear and fine PM Cloudy and drift.
part of Men engaged on inland duties. - Rest as before. Sent off two Men and Dogs with Provisions to Steel River with orders for one at the Wooders Tent to accompany them & afsist the cutting down some Timber pieces near the Sawyers Tent."

Feb. 6
" Satuarday AM stiff Breezes NW severe Cold PM light Airs from the same quarter clear & fine.
Men nearly as before. A man came from each of the hunting Tents near the factory as did two Wooders for Provisions."

Feb. 7
" Sunday Breezes NNW Clear and fine
Prayers
The Wooders and Hunters went to their respective Tents. John Thompson recovered sent him to the Eastward hunting Tent."

Feb. 8
" Monday Stiff Breezes Nly Cloudy & Cold
Mefs Thomas, Sutherland and rest of Men as last week. - Sent off three Indians to hunt acrofs Nelson River."

Feb. 9
" Tuesday light Breezes N by W Cloudy
Men as before. - Trusted two families of Ind. small debts and sent them trapping small furs.
Mefs Thomas and Sutherland with the Man &c who left the factory the 1st instant return'd say they only killed eight Partridges since their absence being all they saw. Mr Sutherland says he never experienced more want or known such scarcity since he has been in the Country. that they had not tasted a morsel of victuals from the preceeding Thursday before last night when they stopped at the Eastward hunting Tent."

Fed. 10
" Wednesday Light Airs variable very pleasant fine Weather. Men as before. In the afternoon two Severn Indians arrived to beg Provisions. Say their families are in great want brought no Skins to Trade with them."

Feb.11
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterday and Mens employ the same
One family of Indians set off hunting small furrs, say they had rather take their chance in the Woods then stay at the Factory where no kind of Game is to be procured."

Feb. 12
" Friday Fresh Breezes WSW Clear & fine
Men as before. Two Men and Dogs set off with Provisions to the Sawyers &c at Steel River. Mr Sutherland accompanied them to examine the work done.
The Indians of Wednesday went away with Provisions &c to their friends. They asked me if would permit them to visit York as deaths had made great havock among their friends lately at Severn and wished to leave it. I told them I would give them no encouragement and as they owed debts to Mr Ballenden, I should stop the amount thereof if they brought furrs. - These methods I have hitherto pursued when any natives visited me from other Settlements. would every Master follow the same plan it would be a considerable saving annually to the Honble Company and prevent the low Country Natives from rambling."

Feb. 13
" Satuarday Wind and Weather as Yesterday
Men the same. - One Man came from each of the hunting Tents as did three Wooders for Provisions. - Only 40 Partridges killed by all the Hunters this Week. English & Indian. Late in the evening two Natives arrived for Provisions, say no Game is stirring to enable them to support their families."

Feb. 14
" Sunday Light Airs NW Cloudy mild Wea. PM variable. Prayers
The Hunters, Wooders and Natives of Yesterday went away. - The Indians came home from acrofs the North River with 166 Partridges - Blefs God for these supplies it being the largest quantity I have seen together this Season."

Feb. 15
" Monday Light Airs ESE morning clear afternoon Cloudy and mild.
Men as last Week. Sent one Man to the Wooders with Partridges."

Feb. 16
" Tuesday Sly Breezes mild and fine
Men as before, except one added to the Sick list. The Man returned from the Woods. Sent off the Indian Hunters acrofs Nelson River."

Feb. 17
" Wednesday Nly Breezes Cloudy with Snow
Men nearly as before."

Feb. 18
" Thursday Variable Breezes mild pleasant Weather. Men as before. The Man & Dogs returnd from Steel River. one being left to afsist at the Woods. - Mr Sutherland also came home and reports very favorable of the Work done but says part of the Men make great complaint of want of provisions - Some of those at Steel River have not eaten any animal food since they left the Factory at Christmas. except for a few Partridges supplied them by Pennycutway River Hunters. their chief living has been Flour and Oatmeal &c. indeed they are fearful of eating the salt Beef & Pork as they suffered severely last Season by it. and by what I find give up their allowance of Meat to others who has eaten the chief part sent. yet these Men make greater complaints than all the rest of want. There are others at the Wooders Tent who fed wholly on salt Meat have symtoms of the Scurvy. two Men are now there with that disorder."

Feb. 19
" Friday Breezes Sly fine and pleasant
Men and sick as before. The Indians I sent acrofs Nelson River on Tuesday return'd with 100 Partridges. Blefs God."

Feb. 20
" Satuarday AM variable light Airs Sly fine and Clear PM Cloudy.
Two Men came from Stoney Rivers hunting Tent with 40 Partridges. and the eight mile Island Hunters brought their Tent and things home in order to remove acrofs the North River on Monday. - Three Men came from the Woods for Provisions & Medicines for the Sick."

Feb. 21
" Sunday Nly Breezes Cloudy with Snow & mild
Sent the Wooders and Stoney River Hunters to their respective Tents. Seven Men preparing to leave the factory tomorrow."

Feb. 22
" Monday Wind and Weather as Yesterday
Sent off Man & Dogs with Provisions to Sawyers &c at Steel River. - Two Men are sent to afsist the Sawyers cutting down Timber & collect the sawed stuff together. - Sent Isaac Batt and three Men to Tent and Hunt acrofs Nelson River. - Rest of Men as last Week - Sent Indian Hunters to the Northward. In the evening two Natives arrived well loaded with furrs. say Partridges and Game is very plenty Inland and not more than 5 or 6 days Journey distant from the factory."

Feb. 23
" Tuesday AM fresh Breezes NW Clear & fine PM Light Airs variable to ESE
Men as before. - The Natives of last Night Traded part, left three bundles of Furrs till they arrive in the Spring, and went away."

Feb. 24
" Wednesday AM light Airs variable Cloudy mild Weather - PM fresh Breezes NE with Snow
Men as before."

Feb. 25
" Thursday fresh Breezes NE Cloudy thick drifting with Snow.- Men as before."

Feb. 26
" Friday Stiff Breezes Nly part Clear & part Hazy Cold Weather. - Men as before."

Feb. 27
" Satuarday Fresh Breezes Wly Clear & fine PM Wind varied Nly.
Men nearly as before - Two Men came from Stoney Rivers hunting Tent with 50 Part's. also two from the Wooders Tent for provisions, they brought home John Valient, very much disabled by the Scurvy. He is a heavy slothful Man and those are the first I find afflicted with that disorder."

Feb. 28
" Sunday Breezes Nly Clear Cold Weather.
The Hunters and Wooders of Yesterday went away. - The Man with Dogs &c came from Steel River, brought home Tho. Linklatter much hurt by a violent strain in his loins carrying a piece of Timber. In the afternoon one Man came from the hunting Tent acrofs Nelson River with a few Partridges as did two of the Indians."

Mar. 1 1790
" Monday Light Breezes variable from N to W Clear and fine
James Hall, Thomas Linklatter, John Valient and Robert Hudson on the Sick List, the two last very bad with the Scurvy. - The Hunter of Yesterday went to his Tent. - Rest of Men as last Week."

Mar. 2
" Tuesday AM Breezes Wly Clear & fine PM stiff Breezes Nly drift & Cold. - Men as before."

Mar. 3
" Wednesday AM stiff Breezes Nly Cloudy and Cold PM variable from S to SE Clear and fine. Sent off Man and Dogs with Provisons to Sawyers, also one Man to supply the room of Tho. Linklatter Sawyer who is Ill at the House. - Rest of Men as before. Sent Indian Hunters to the Northward."

Mar. 4
" Thursday Nly Breezes AM Clear PM Cloudy drifting and Cold. - Mens employ and Sick as before."

Mar. 5
" Friday Wly Breezes Clear and Cold.
Men as before. - In the evening an old Indian Man and Woman came in with a few furrs and two Porcupines."

Mar. 6
" Satuarday Breezes Nly part clear and part cloudy. - Three Men came from the Woods for Provisions, also one man from the hunting Tent acrofs Nelson River, and two from Stoney Rivers with a few Partridges. - Rest & Sick as before. Indians of Yesterday traded and went away."

Mar. 7
" Sunday Snow last night. Wind as yesterday with thick drift. Prayers.
Weather too bad in the morrning for Wooders and Hunters to set off. - In the afternoon the Man and Dogs return'd from Steel River as did part of the Indians from the North River which they crofs'd yesterday and slept on this Island.
John Wood and Beaky Goudie with an Indian Man arrived from Severn with the Packet from that Settlement, blefs God all well - The Men tell me Game is very scarce and they found them daily diminish as they travelled nearer this place, and for every Bird they saw within 100 Miles of this Factory they suppose their is ten at Severn. - When we consider the few hands at that Settlement and they find a difficulty killing sufficient to support 18 Men, it's no wonder we find ourselves at a lofs to kill sufficient supply for 57. They say they should not attempted to travel this day had they met with any thing to eat for they had not seen a Bird or tasted any victuals since Yesterday at noon, and hunger obliged them to face the Weather."

Mar. 8
" Monday Light Breezes Nly Clear and fine
Sent off Wooders and two of the Hunters to their respective Tents. John Thompson & Beaky Goudie added to Sick list. - Rest of Men as before. James Hall on duty."

Mar. 9
" Tuesday Wind and Weather nearly as before
Men and Sick the same - Discharged John Moad from the office of Cook for making to free with Provisions. - Sent off the Indian Hunters of Sunday to the Northward."

Mar. 10
" Wednesday AM light Airs S by W Clear and fine. - PM Gales from the same quarter Cloudy. towards evening Snow.
Sent off Men and Dogs to Steel River with Provisions to Sawyers. Also John Moad to Wooders Tent. Appointed John Houston? Cook in his room. rest as before."

Mar. 11
" Thursday Much Snow last night Light Airs variable Cloudy & mild. - Men & Sick as before."

Mar. 12
" Friday Light Airs Nly fine and clear mild Weather as to melt the Snow from the Top of House. John Thompson recovered, went to his Tent. Two Brewing. - Rest as before."

Mar. 13
" Satuarday Fresh Breezes Nly Clear Weather
Three Men came from the Woods for Provisions as did one Man from each of the hunting Tents to the Eastward & Northward with a few Partridges. - Rest of Men and Sick as before. The Indian Hunters came from the Northward with Partridges. - These Men have been a great help to us this Winter in killing Game and their succefs has been greater than all the English Hunters together."

Mar. 14
" Sunday Light Breezes Wly clear fine & sharp PM variable and mild. Prayers
The Hunters and Wooders of Yesterday went to their respective Tents. - The Man & Dogs return'd from the Sawyers Tent who are removed from Steel River to a lot of Timber about 8 miles beyond Pennycutway River. - Justice obliges me to mention every circumstance relating the safety of the factory. James Hall brought an impertinant Letter written by Robert Farrer at the Woods wherein he states they are all starving &c. James Hall told me and Officers (ie Mefs Thomas and Sutherland) to prevent any disagreeable consequences arising, he would advise me to make a distinction and serve out Englishmen a larger allowance of Provisions than Orkney Men. - On my refusing to shew any partiality and telling him my own living was equal the rest of Men, he behaved any very daring and Insolent manner, and threatened so soon as Farrer and the rest came home, they would compel me to their Terms. - He said no Man could live on the full Allowance of English Meat the pieces are so small much more on short Allowance of two or three days pr Week. -
In Order to prevent discontent & murmuring among the Men ever since they have been on short Allowance, I suffered no more Victuals to be? drest daily, than one third Allowance of animal food, for my own and second Tables and? this has not been exceeded. - On my being informed that my Cook proloined a few Partridges and drefsed them for particular favourites, was the cause of my discharging him the 9 instant. - Indeed a single Partridge at these times is of Consequence. they ? be esteemed more valuable in England where Mr Thomas says they are more plenty than he has seen them here since his arrival in this Country - To Notice the smallnefs of the Pieces of Beef and their bad quality - would only be a recital of what has been inserted in my former Journal. - Several pieces after they were drefsed this Season weighed no more than from 16 to 20 ounces, and one drefsed last Thursday weighed no more than 12 Ounces, vast difference between the sizes of these, and the rounds of Beef drefsed by the Captains on board the Ship. - The complaints of the poor Men on this article is too well founded and requires a remedy. Justice is not done by the Contractor, and I am apprehensive it will be attended with very serious consequences should this continue for any length of time."

Mar. 15
" Monday Light Airs NNW Clear and fine
All hands at home, Sick excepted, clearing away Snow in yard and wheeling it to Banks edge in order to make room to begin framing of Buildings. - Rest as before."

Mar. 16
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as yesterday
Men nearly the same as last Week, except James Hall and afsistant who began framing of building. Willm Miller came from the Woods, his infirmities renders him uncapable to perform the duties required there.
Closed the Packet for Severn and Bay Settlements. Your honors I hope will pardon my taking the liberty of writing to the Chiefs down the Bay respecting a clause in future to be inserted on the back of Certificates, when given to particular Servants, on leaving this employ (as therein mentioned) I should not written on these subjects had I not been fully convinced this place would be soon filled with uselefs Men. too many of this discription are annually brought out who are a burden to the Factory (more especially these short times) Among whom are a few engaged last Year and from Captain Tunstalls declaration more active Men are not to be expected in future."

Mar. 17
" Wednesday AM Wind and Weather as before PM Cloudy with light Snow.
Sent off a Packet to Severn. - John Wood whose time expires this year is detained at York which makes our number 58. Sent two Men and Dogs with Provisions to Sawyers up the River. - Rest nearly as before.
This Morning three families of indians came in with a flag flying and Dogs hauling 7 Sleds well loaded with furrs. they came from the play green neat Lake Owinepeg purposely for Guns and Hatchets and make great complaints of these articles. - They tell me out of seven guns belonging to their whole party three burst by which accident one man who is 40 beaver in Debt lost his hand early in the fall. Say all their Hatchets are too brittle and break to pieces like Ice. This has been a complaint for a long time past and not without foundation. - Our Smith being busily engaged in the fall making Iron work for Building had not time to make trapping Hatchets as usual. - 15 trading ones were delivered out to Hunters, not one stood the cutting down a stick and the whole were rendered uselefs almost the first time of using. -
As Guns and Hatchets are the principal instruments used by Natives (very rarely are they seen without them) and on which the lives of many depend, as well as the Honble Companys Trade, too much pains cannot be taken in the choice of these articles. - I have seen too many melancholy accidents by the bursting of the former, and this Trade severely suffers by the brittlenefs of the latter owing to their not being properly tempered."

Mar. 18
" Thursday Light Breezes NW Clear and Cold
Men nearly as before. - Natives too ineberated to Trade."

Mar. 19
" Friday AM Wind and Weather as Yesterday PM variable to the S more mild and pleasant
Men nearly as before. - The Natives paid Debts and Traded nearly 600 MB."

Mar. 20
" Satuarday Variable light Breezes Clear & fine
Three Men came from the Woods for provisions. One Man came from each of the hunting Tents to the Eastward & Northward with a few Partridges. - Rest as before. Natives of Yesterday set off. Sent presents to their friends."

Mar. 21
" Sunday Strong Gales Nly part clear part Cloudy and drift.
The Wooders and Eastward Hunter of yesterday went to their respective Tents. - The Men and Dogs came home from the Sawyers Tent with Thomas Brown disabled by the Scurvy."

Mar. 22
" Monday Stiff Breezes Nly afterwards WSW Clear and fine.
Sent Mr Cook with an old Indian Man & Lad to Hunt and Tent the back of this Island. The Hunter from Nelson River went to his Tent. John Valient, Tho. Brown and Robert Hudson bad with the Scurvy. Rest of Men as last Week. Sent off Indian Hunters acrofs Nelson River."

Mar 23
" Tuesday Strong Gales WSW Cloudy
Mr Sutherland with an Indian set off to Tent on the eight Mile Island to snare Rabbitts &c. Rest of Men and Sick as before."

Mar. 24
" Wednesday Early AM fresh Breezes SW with light Snow very mild, afterwards strong Gales Nly drifting Cloudy & Cold.
Too bad Weather to work out. all hands at factory variously engaged in House. 2 Brewing. - Rest as before."

Mar. 25
" Thursday NW stiff Breezes AM very sharp PM more mild and varied Sly
Sent off Man and Dogs to Sawyers &c beyond Pennycutway with Provisions. - Rest & Sick as before."

Mar. 26
" Friday Breezes NE Clear sharp Weather
Mens employ and Sick as before."

Mar. 27
" Satuarday Breezes NW Clear and sharp
One Hunter came from each of the Tents with a few Partridges. Three Men came from the Woods for Provisions. - Rest as before. - Indian hunters came home with more Game than all the English hunters procured this Week. Three Natives arrived well loaded with furrs, they say Game was so scarce coming towards the factory obliged them to kill one of their Dogs to eat, that they had not seen a Bird or tasted any food for three days past. Traded. their remaining Dog died soon after their arrival thro' hunger."

Mar. 28
" Sunday N by W Breezes Clear and Cold
Mr Cook, Hunters and Wooders went to their respective Tents."

Mar. 29
" Monday Nly Breezes Clear and Cold
Mens employ and Sick as last Week - Men and Dogs return'd. - The Natives of Satuarday went away."

Mar. 30
" Tuesday Variable Breezes Ely Clear Cold Weather
Had Warehouses cleaned. Tradesmen and rest of Men as before. Sent Indian Hunters acrofs Nelson River."

Mar. 31
" Wednesday Light Airs and gentle Breezes variable from SE to E Clear fine Weather.
Sent one Man to clear Snow out of Shallop and Long Boat. - Rest as before.
Made a minute overhaul of Provisions remaining in Ware House. - Since the 1st Janry 2892 Partridges have been killed. 16 10/57 days provisions for 57 Men (the last Month 58 besides Severn Packet Men). By stoppage and short allowance find no more than 55 days animal Food has been expended, which is nearly 4/10 lefs than usual daily allowance among the whole since that period. and real necefsity compelled me to pursue these methods. I hear very few Men murmur considering the situation of things (except those who have had the largest share and those are the only ones disconted and who talk of striking duty) - In order to keep the Men in spirits I served out double Allowance of Brandy to those engaged in Laborious duties. this has answered my most sanguine expectation, it might be justly called the life and Soul of Work. - This will account for my Factory Expences being so much enlarged, as well as expences killing, so small quantity of Provisions Game of all kinds has been and continues remarkably scarce. - The Indian Hunters travel long distances in search of Partridges and as encouragement am obliged to pay well for the Birds killed - Many of the Men suffered so severely by the English Provisions last year, are fearful of eating either Beef or Pork, which has enabled me to collect 60? Pieces of the former and 26? Pieces of the latter for which they had in exchange Flour, Oatmeal &c which accounts for so much of these articles being expended. - I refer your Honors to Provision Book. The pieces of Meat collected is taken in reciepts of next Month.
One of the Natives who left the factory on monday return'd unable to pursue his Journey on account of a violent strain in his loins he remains for the Goose Hunt."

Apr. 1 1790
" Thursday Light Airs Clear and thawing
Men nearly as before."

Apr. 2
" Friday fresh Breezes Ely Cloudy. Much Water on the South Channel at full Tide. perform'd Service suitable to the day. - No Work.
A Native stranger came in to beg provisions for his own and two other families who are in great want and to request permifsion to bring three Children to the factory for our Surgeons examination, they having reced shot Wounds by a Gun going off accidently a few days ago by which a fourth Child was unfortunately shot dead. - The poor Man appeared very distrefsed and much troubled. Gave him Medicines to drefs the Wounded and provisions for the Hungered and he set off, says he will be here with his family in a few days."

Apr. 3
" Satuarday Strong Gales Ely Cloudy PM thick drift with Snow.
Mr Sutherland returnd with his Tent &c having caught only 15 Rabbits since his absence. Mr Cook came from his, with 6 Fox skins, the flesh of which he was obliged to eat having no other Provisions to live on since he left the factory. - No Partridges or Rabbits are to be seen on this Island, nor has been any since the deluge in 1788. - One Man attempted to come to the House from the Eastward hunting Tent but could not crofs the River on account of the large flow of Water on the South Channel which obliged him to return back to his Tent, leaving his Sled on the opposite shore where with our Glafses we distinguish Indians who cannot reach the factory. - Sent Men to give them afsistance to no purpose, the Water was too deep for them to venture acrofs. The Tide came in so strong this day with the Gales of Wind forced up part of the ground Ice below. Kept up lights and about ten oClock in the Evening the Natives mentioned yesterday came in having left part of their furrs fixed on a Stage a days Journey from the Factory.
The Men came from the Woods for Provisions brought one Man home disabled by the Scurvy. Men variously engaged in House."

Apr. 4
" Sunday Light Breezes Ely Cloudy with Snow.
Two of the Eastward hunters came home with the Sled left yesterday acrofs the River, only twelve Partridges killed by them this Week. Wooders went to their Tent. - performed Service suitable to the day."

Apr. 5
" Monday Strong Gales Ely and variable Nly ? Cold Cloudy and thick drift.
The Hunters of Yesterday went to their Tent with orders? to bring home their things. - Too bad weather to Work out. all hands variously engaged in? House."

Apr. 6
" Breezes variable WSW & Sly Clear
Men and Sick at the House as last Week. - The Men and Dogs return'd from Sawyers &c. Indian hunters came home says no Birds are to be seen unlefs they go far to the Northward which is attended with much labour. the few they see are so ? - One Man came from Nelson River ? with a few Partridges as did the Eastward hunters with their Bedding &c.
-The Natives who arrived on Satuarday are obliged to remain for Mr Thomas to attend their Wounded Children - I endeavoured to prevail on? them to return to Severn to which Settlement I find they belong. but they positively refused. told me they owed Mr Ballanden Debt, which they would pay me, and if I did not agree to their visiting York in future, there were other places they could carry their furrs, and were they would be acceptable - said they were free and had liberty to go were they pleased, and were they were used well they would stay. - As these Indians are fully determined not to go back to Severn I Judged it would be imprudent in me to drive them from the Honble Company's interest. I engaged them to kill Geese for us in the Spring which will be a great help to us as our Stock of Provisions is now much reduced.
- Snow Birds made their appearance."

Apr. 7
" Wednesday Variable light Breezes from SSW to SSE Clear fine and thawing.
- Sent off the Hunter from the Northward to his Tent. - Two of the Eastward Hunters accompanied part of the Natives mentioned on Saturday to afsist with their furrs to the factory. - rest of Men and Sick as before.
- Sent off ten Natives different routs to hunt Parts. In the afternoon two Indians arrived with a Packet from Churchill. These Men tell me Partridges are very plenty from the South Shore of Churchill River to OOsippee (about halfway between this and that Settlement) afterwards they saw but very few."

Apr. 8
" Thursday AM Wind and Weather as yesterday PM variable Breezes Ely more Cold.
Early this morning (two oClock) the Men I sent yesterday for furrs returnd with four Bundles, the Natives who accompanied them pursued their Journey towards Ship River and Cape Tatnum to look for Partridges.
- Sent off Men and Dogs with Provisions to the Sawyers &c and Letters brought from Churchill (for Men there) Mr Sutherland accompanied them to examine work done and to give orders about their return to the Factory. Rest and Sick as before"

Apr. 9
" Friday Variable Breezes from E to N Clear Weather. - Men and Sick as before."

Apr. 10
" Satuarday Nly Breezes Clear Weather
Men and Sick nearly as before. Two Men came from Nelson River hunting Tent with 100 Partridges the largest quantity brought in at one time from an English hunting Tent this Season.
- One family of Natives came in for the Goose Hunt middling gooded. - The Indian hunters I sent towards Cape Tatnum on Wednesday return'd say they have not seen a Partridge since their absence. this confirms the account before receiv'd that the principal resort? of Partridges is between Nelson River and Churchill."

Apr. 11
" Sunday Nly Breezes Cloudy Weather
The North River Hunters of Yesterday went to their Tent with whom I sent an additional Man to afsist. Isaac Batt home to the factory who is ill."

Apr. 12
" Monday Light Breezes Nly Cloudy and Cold with Snow the first part of the day. Latter more clear and mild.
Mr Sutherland return'd from the Wooders and Sawyers Tents as did James Bird and Hunters from Pennycutway River - Bricklayer and two Men breaking stone for Lime, rest as before. - The Indian Hunters return'd from the Northward much tired with Sleds well loaded with Partridges, say it is uselefs to go out more as the Birds are pairing and by the killing of one many are destroyed.
- Three families of Natives came in almost starved very poor in furrs, not half sufficient to pay their contracted debts.
Prepared Letters for Churchill Settlement and closed the Packet."

Apr. 13
" Tuesday Variable Breezes Ely blowing strong with drifting Snow PM more moderate with showers of Rain.
Carpenters making packing Boxes for Inland. All the Men came from the Woods & Sawyers Tents. rest as before."

Apr. 14
" Wednesday a Continual Rain all last night Day Cloudy with Gales of Wind S by W.
Gave all the Men a holiday. Packet Men say the ground is too moist to travel."

Apr. 15
" Thursday Light Airs and gentle Breezes Sly Clear and fine
Carpenters framing Building Armourer stocking and mending hunting Guns, Cooper, Smith and four Men at Work for Inland, Taylors for Trade, Shipwright and afsistant building Boat. Bricklayer and afsistant at Lime Kiln. four at the pit Saw. Sent 15 Men and 5 Dogs to the Fourteens River to haul empty Casks Powder and Shot &c for the Goose Hunt, five acrofs the North River 7 in Sick list. rest variously employed - Churchill Packet Men too Indolent to travel."

Apr. 16
" Friday light Airs from E to ESE Cloudy mild Wea.
Mefs Thomas and Cook went to the North River hunting Tent with orders for Men to return to the factory. Rest and Sick as before
With difficulty I got the Churchill Packet Men to set off on their return. Gave the usual annual treat prior to the Goose Hunt."

Apr. 17
" Satuarday Wind nearly as yesterday. Snow early in the Morning, day Cloudy & mild.
Men engaged as Yesterday conveying Casks &c to the fourteens River, hauling framing of Building to New York. rest of Men nearly as before. The Hunters &c came from Nelson River hunting Tent with their Bedding &c &c.
- Our last Cask of Beef but one was opened this day (except what is put by for inland Servants) which is the finest looking and largest pieces seen in this Country by the oldest Servant for many Years past, and shews plainly to be all picked Meat, and equal that expended by the Captains on board the Ship as many pieces weigh from 10 to 12 lbs. We cannot help drawing the Conclusion that this Cask was never intended by the Captains for any Settlement in this Country had it been wholesome. but it smells equally offensive on opening the Cask with the rest received at York. - Capt. Tunstall last Season declared publickly while at York that the worst piece of Meat sent out was good enough for any Servant in this Country (or to use his own Words, the poor Creatures in this Country) and made many objections signing the general Letter on account of the Paragraph inserted stating the unsound state of the Beef &c. and the reasons he gave were that it would injure his friend Mr Mellersk? the Butcher notwithstanding he could scarcely remain at table when part was drefs'd the smell was so offensive. - I have ordered the Cooper to make a small Cask and fill it to send to England for your honors inspection.
- Two families of Natives came in for the Goose Hunt well loaded with furrs. this will increase our number of Hunters and enable me I hope, to provide for my poor Men should providence send plenty of Geese far better than I have been able this Winter."

[In the margin "Your Honors are to understand that the Cask opened this day I am not certain it was last years Meat or the preceeding? one? - the date being so much defaced"]

Apr. 18
" Sunday fresh Breezes Nly Cloudy Cold Weather
The Natives of Yesterday paid debts and traded part. A youth that came in with them paid 15 Beaver owing to Mr Ballenden."

Apr. 19
" Monday Wind and Weather as Yesterday
Sent two Men to the Eastward for setting Guns. Carpenters as work at new York. rest of Men as last Week. Indians finished Trade."

Apr. 20
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as before.
Men nearly the same except those at large Sled yesterday are wheeling Snow to Banks edge. Sent James Bird Writer with three Men to the Goose Tent to salt Geese and serve out Powder and shot to Natives.
Sent off two families of Natives to wait the crofsing of Deer at Flambro Head. all the rest pitched away to the Goose Tent at the Fourteens River. 64 in number among the whole no more than 12 Hunters and three Lads. I have detain'd one sober young Man to hunt Geese on this Island with Mr Sutherland."

Apr. 21
" Wednesday Wind Ely Clear and fine
Fifteen labourers hauling Stones on large Sled to New York. Rest as before
The Beef served out on Satuarday last was brought me this evening, part of the Men appears much disconted and disorderly for altho its so fine looking and its weight so great when taken out of the Cask, when drefsed is no more than 15 Ounces, which if eatable is not sufficient days allowance for one hungry Man. I impute its diminishing so much to the putrid rotten state it is in, for no human being can eat it and Indians refuse tasting the Liquor it is boiled in the smell is so offensive. As part is packed in a Cask (with Pickle) taken out promisciously? for your honors inspection I shall make no farther comment hereon but leave it to your honors superior Judgement whither the complaints of Men are well founded. - Many of the Men declare they cannot work without having sufficient Provisions to live on and were determined to lay by and not do any more duty until they were served out full allowance. - Justice obliges me to say that James Hall tho a useful and expeditious Workman in the building way is the most difsatisfied of any other Man in the factory and is at times very troublesome & disorderly. - He is a leading Person among the Servants and is a speaker for the whole and they look up to him as it were to redrefs their grievance. His language discourages many for he sees everything in horrid shapes at great distances and cannot face the most trivial appearance of want without heavy complaints and murmurs.
- Here are two or three others who support him far more dangerous in disposition in my opinion, who keep aloof and are so artful as to attempt to disguise their intentions and only wait for opportunity to begin an insurrection. - My presence among them from morning till night and my own and officers scanty living has hitherto kept good order. But should Tradesmen persevere, strike duty and refuse Work, others would follow and a scene of confusion would ensue and businefs would be stopt?, equal last year when the Scurvy raged with such violence. - God be praised I have kept that dreadful disorder under this Winter by the quantity of vegetables and Cranberries I preserved in the fall (the last of which were served out to Men on Satuarday the 17 instant) and none are afflicted with that shocking disorder but the indolent and those who when in health were uselefs Servants to the Honble Company, and a burden to the factory.
- To Conduct businefs when plenty abounds is no difficult matter, on the contrary rather a pleasing recreation to an active Man, but to keep a large number of Men in order, and want common necefsaries at the same time? is no easy task, even in a Country where the Law can be inforced, how different our situation here without support or afsistance in case a Mutiny takes place. - It requires the greater circumspection, precaution and resolution to forward the necefsary duties as with scanty living for a continuance, the most attentive becomes listlefs and requires a spur to keep them in action, for in action Men must be kept as the Mind is always employed to good or bad purposes and when usefully employed bad thoughts are for awhile kept at a distance, for it often happens when corroding melancholy takes pofsefsion of the mind, and want at the time stare in the face, it too frequently drives innocent Men to commit actions dishonorable and dangerous to the peace and welfare of their fellow Creatures. A double allowance of Brandy which I have served out since Christmas has been a great means of keeping a few disatisfied minds quiet and prevented much disorder (in short prevented Mutiny)
- God hath blefsed me with a good share of health and a flow of spirits to a great degree, hath enabled me hitherto to persevere with resolution but I find the anxiety and care which I have suffered for such a length of time begins to prey on my mind and impair my constitution which without speedy alteration will soon wear me down, however I guard as much as pofsible to prevent its taking too deep root? and endeavour to disguise my feelings for my Men that they may not be discouraged from their Work."

Apr. 22
" Thursday Nly Breezes Cloudy and Cold
Had the kiln drawn and lime taken to New York. - rest as before till noon, when Ware Houses were opened as usual for the last time this Season for Men to take out things in order to close our Accounts in time."

Apr. 23
" Friday Wind and Weather as yesterday
Men exercising small Arms."

Apr. 24
" Satuarday Wind and Weather the same
Part of Men as before hauling Stones &c to New York, but the greater part too unruly to attend duty. One Man came from the Goose Tent and return'd. Necefsity compelled me to begin on Provisions for inland Servts."

Apr. 25
" Sunday AM Wind variable from N to E Cloudy more mild than for days past.
Early this morning sent off Mr Cook two Englishmen and one Indian to look for a proper spot of ground near the ruins of old Flambro House to erect a large Log Tent to serve as store Room to receive Venison from Natives in the Summer, where I intend to send Men (God willing) to reside and salt it. The Indians tell me many hundred Deer are killed annually near the Seals Island and there left to rot or drift away with the Tides. the distance from the factory and bad Weather often detain them and the danger of coming round the point of Marsh in small Canoes prevents their supplying us with any quantity of good Meat from the North River. By building this Log Tent it will remove the obstacle complained of, and should the plan succeed and God send plenty of Deer it will be the means of relieving our distrefses and enable me to get a stock for next Winters supply. I hope your honors will pardon my taking this liberty without receiving orders for so doing."

Apr. 26
" Monday AM light Airs Clear & thawing PM variable to E by N freezing.
Tradesmen and Sick as last Week. Sent three Men 6 Dogs and Sleds With Tools to Flambro head, to make a temporary store Room &c as mentioned yesterday. The repeated bad behaviour of Tho. Wiegan Writer, obliged me to send him this day with Men to Work the large Sled, a tryal, if harsh methods will reclaim him for no gentle admonitions has any effect. his delight is to afsociate with the common Labourers with whom he would be in a continual state of intoxication could he but get Liquor. and he attempts every mean method to obtain it and his chief amusement is swearing, and many of the worst of vices he is guilty of. His indiscretions are so glaring that he is become the butt and ridcule to Men and Natives. Indeed the conduct of both the Writers who came out pr last Ship, are in the highest degree reprehensible. I have had my hads full with them and my ears have been disgusted with the most impertinent, low vulgar Language I ever before heard.
This induced me to keep James Bird (Writer) at a distance from them all the Winter, being fearful they would contaminate his morals. the latter is a steady promising young Man and bids fair to be a valuable Servant to the Honble Company. The Contrary is the case with the two former who are uselefs and a burden to this Settlement."

Apr. 27
" Tuesday light Airs Sly Clear and mild
Men nearly as yesterday. Had Ware Houses cleaned. Mr Sutherland and two People set off to ten Shilling Creek to try for Fish."

Apr. 28
" Wednesday AM Wind and Weather as Yesterday very Cloudy thick Weather, Noon Rain. PM fresh Breezes Nly very dark and Cold with Snow.
Men nearly as before. Mr Sutherland return'd says no Game is stiring."

Apr. 29
" Thursday NE Breezes and part of the day fresh Gales from the same quarter. Cloudy thick drifting Snow and Cold.
Too bad Weather to Work out. Began packing Goods for inland.
About two oClock this day died Robert Hudson Writer his disorder the Scurvy."

Apr. 30
" Friday fresh Breezes variable from N to E drifting Snow Cold and Cloudy.
Carpenters making a Coffin. four men digging a Grave, 8 afsisting packing Goods for inland, rest nearly as before. A Man and Dogs return'd from Flambro Head for Provisions says no Game is stiring and only killed three Partridges since their absence.
The Natives also return'd from the North Shore of Nelson River much disheartened at the scarcity of Deer and other Game."

May 1
" Satuarday Wind & Weather nearly as before.
Sent off Man and Dogs with Provisions to Flambro Head. Carpenters at work at New York. Rest of Men as before till noon. The Natives who arrived last night set off to their Tent at fourteens River."

May 2
" Sunday Wind variable from N to E part clear and part Cloudy.
- One family of Natives came in tolerably well loaded with furs which they traded. stopped 60 Beaver owing to Mr Ballenden at Severn. Sent two Men up the River for some Deers flesh left by Natives. Buried the remains of Robert Hudson Writer in the Burial ground at New York."

May 3
" Monday Wind and Weather as Yesterday
About 1 AM the Men I sent up the River yesterday return'd with 92 lbs dry'd Venison & Beavers flesh. Sent eight Men to repair Deer Hedge. six at Flambro Head making a temporary dwelling &c. Tradesmen and rest as before.

May 4
" Tuesday Wind Weather & Mens employ the same
The Natives of Sunday set off to the fourteens River Goose Tent (kept a young Lad to Hunt for us on this Island) three Indians came from thence to beg Provisions for their families and went away."

May 5
" Wednesday Wind and Weather nearly the same AM Snow
The Men employed at Deer Hedge for two days past, cleaning Snow &c from within the Stockadoes. rest as before."

May 6
" Thursday Wind and Weather much the same and mens employ nearly as before except Mr Sutherland and two Indian Lads who set off up the River to Sleep and Hunt Game. First Goose killed by Mr Sutherland. Several men laid up unable to Work. Two Natives came in traded and set off. stopped 32 Beaver owing Mr Ballenden Severn"

May 7
" Friday Early this Morning Wind and Weather as before. afterwards fresh Breezes SE by E Clear & fine.
Labourers began digging SawPit and making drains at New York. rest of Men & Sick as before. Finished packing Goods for Inland Trade. I have a considerable and larger quantity than usual to prevent the detention of Men, as was the case last year. and to stop the partiality which prevailed for Seasons past in delivering out Cargoes. I had every bundle made of equal weight, and the Goods are sorted that I could fit out thirty Canoes at a days Notice. the want of Brazil Tobacco will be the only hinderance of prosecuting the Inland businefs with rigour. both this and inland Trade will severely suffer by it.
- Mr Cook and Men came home from from Flambro Head tell me they built a substantial Log Tent about a Mile beyond where the old Factory stood. They tell me there is? no Timber up that River, which was what I much depended on, and where to collect sufficient to finish our Buildings I know not. Edward Brown was obliged to be haul'd home having reced a violent cut with an Adze, which am apprehensive will disable him from duty a long time. Two Natives came in with the flesh of two Beaver and a few skins which they traded & went away."

May 8
" Satuarday Light Breezes NE by E & variable ESE Clear & fine. Mens employ as before."

May 9
" Sunday heavy showers of rain all last night till 9 AM afterwards Cloudy mild Weather with light Breezes SE by E
Divine Service. Mr Sutherland &c came home say too much water on the Ice obliged his return, brought a few Geese."

May 10
" Monday Gentle Breezes Sly Clear fine and temperate.
Mr Sutherland, James Banks and two Indian Lads set off to Tent and hunt in Marsh. sent two hunting the back of the Island. rest as before, except two slinging inland Rundlets. Two Natives came from the fourteens River with 6 Geese & beg Provisions."

May 11
" Tuesday Fresh Breezes Nly Cloudy & Cold Hail and Snow in the morning.
Mens employ the same. French Creek Ice broke up."

May 12
" Wednesday Light Breezes variable Clear Weather
Mens employ nearly the same except three spinning line and twisting Rope for Deer Snares and for Tracking Boats. Caught one large Deer in Hedge, blefs God, our want is great."

May 13
" Thursday Light Breezes SSE Clear Weather
Mens employ the same. The Ice upwards appears to have given way - part of the South Chanel open."

May 14
" Friday Wind and Weather as before
Sent 12 Labourers to make a New Deer Hedge along the Banks of the River &c. rest of Men nearly as before."

May 15
" Satuarday Variable light Airs all round the Compafs Cloudy Weather.
Men as before. Two Lads came from Mr Sutherland's Tent with a few Ducks, say no Game is stiring.Indeed such a scarcity at this Season of the year was never before experienced? many of the poor Men are almost worn out being in want of necefsaries to support them."

May 16
" Sunday Breezes nNE by E Cloudy Weather with Rain PM Clear.
Divine Service. Mr Sutherland came home quite disheartened the scarcity of Game is so great. in the Evening went back to his Tent."

May 17
" Monday Breezes Nly part clear and part Cloudy
Hunters in Marsh and those at the Eastward as before, all the rest sick excepted 40 in number making Deer hedge &c."

May 18
" Tuesday AM Breezes Nly Cloudy and Cold PM Clear fine and temperate.
Hunters and Tradesmen as last Week, all the rest (Sick excepted) at Deer hedge. Mr Cook and two Indian Lads set off to dram Gutway to look for Game, our distrefs for victuals is now great."

May 19
" Wednesday Light Airs SSW Clear fine pleasant Weather.
All hands as yesterday. Sent Men to Mr Cook to bring home Deer killed in the plains up the River. one caught in Snares. the goodnefs of the Almighty is great sending us these supplies, it has enabled me to serve out one days allowance of Provisions to all hands."

May 20
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterday and Mens employ the same carrying Deer hedge acrofs the plains.
Early this Morning the River Ice became in motion and went quickly down. the water not rising above the usual height of Tides tho the Ice appears very lofty on the Islands up the River."

May 21
" Friday Breezes Nly with Cold raw fogg
Too Cold for Men to Work at Deer hedges, variously employed on New Plantation. Tradesmen as before. Launched a Boat and went up the River to examine Shore for rafting. a heavy deluge appears upwards and great quantities of Ice is loaded on the Islands and the Channel of the River is much altered. brought four Deer from Mr Cook's party and two from Deer hedge."

May 22
" Satuarday Severe Cold and frosty, Wind as before, and men as yesterday.
One Deer from the Hunters up the River."

May 23
" Sunday Wind and Weather as yesterday severe frost and Cold
Four Deer from Hedge 56 lbs fish from ten Shilling Creek & 16 Geese from Mr Sutherland."

May 24
" Monday Wind and Weather as before PM strong Gales Nly very cold and sharp.
James Hall, James Grimbester, John Brown, Alex Johnson and Isaac Batt added to sick list. the weather having been so raw Cold for three days past pinches all the Men who work out. here are very few but complain of violent pains in their Limbs. Set three Nets 30 lbs of Fish and one Deer from the Hunters up the River. rest of Men as last Week."

May 25
" Tuesday Wind and Weather nearly as before with Snow and thick fogg.
Sent five Men in Boat to bring home Deer killed by Mr Cook's party up the River, also to over haul Nets, Also two to the Marsh to bring home Geese. had the Canoes taken out of ground. Rest of Men and Sick as last Week. In the Afternoon a Bungee Chief & family came in, tolerable well gooded."

May 26
" Wednesday Gentle Breezes Ely early in the morning a severe frost afterwards Clear & fine.
Tradesmen and Sick as before. Labourers variously employed fetching 8 Deer from hedge and two killed by Mr Sutherland in Marsh. others salting Venison, overhauling Nets, digging Gardens, and opening temporary Cellar dug last fall.
Native of Yesterday traded . Sent him and Sons up the River to kill deer."

May 27
" Thursday Variable gentle Breezes from E to W pleasant Weather much Ice driving in the River.
Tradesmen and Sick as before. Labourers lengthening Deer Hedge.
2 Deer from Hedge. 2 do. from Mr Cooks party, 1 do. from Mr Sutherland and 3 from Natives who set off Yesterday"

May 28
" Friday Wly Breezes fine pleasant Weather
Having finished two Deer Hedges nearly seven Miles in length acrofs the principal plains where the Deer crofs, ordered those Men who were at those duties to prepare for the Woods tomorrow. Rest as before. 2 Deer from hedge."

May 29
" Satuarday Stiff Breezes Ely Cold raw foggy Weather. Sent 27 Men to raft home Timber &c from Steel River. Isaac Batt and two to attend Nets at Pennycutway and hunt for them. Those at home nearly as before. Mr Cook &c came home. 1 Deer from Hedge."

May 30
" Sunday Wind and Weather nearly as before much heavy Ice driving in the River.
Saw a smoak at French Creek, sent four men in two large Canoes acrofs the River (for we have no Boats at the factory) on their return brought all the Indian Hunters from the fourteens Goose Tent.The Old Natives say they never knew such a scarcity of Geese and had they not been fortunate in killing a few Deer their families would been starved.
Mr Sutherland and party return'd from the Marsh only 401 Geese killed this spring by all the Hunters English and Indian. not more than was formerly killed in a Season by one good Shot. The few Geese seen is imputed to the small quantity of Snow falling in the Winter and which disolved early in the Spring that most of the Lakes and Ponds were open in the plains where the Geese resort and feed during the Cold Weather, and took their flight Northerly without visiting the Coast as was usual at this time of the Year. paid Natives for hunting. The poor hunt and the number of Indians detain'd for this duty makes it very expensive to your honors."

May 31
" Monday Variable light Airs from SSE to E Clear fine weather, much Ice driving in the River.
Men nearly as on Satuarday. Mr Sutherland very ill."

June 1 1790
" Tuesday Stiff Breezes Ely Cloudy with heavy showers of Rain.
Men and Sick nearly as before - Trusted all the Natives small debts for Summers hunt and sent them acrofs the River to kill Deer."

June 2
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as before and Mens employ nearly the same, towards evening raw Cold and much Rain."

June 3
" Thursday fresh Gales Ely Cloudy & raw Cold
Men and Sick nearly as before."

June 4
" Friday Light Airs variable Clear & fine.
Saw a smoak at French Creek, sent two Men in Canoe who return'd with James Bird and Englishmen from the fourteens River Goose Tent. Isaac Batt and party I sent to hunt and fish at Pennycutway River, return'd say no Game of any kind is stirring, that the River upwards is so full of Shoals it was with difficulty they handed the Boats up and are fearful none of the Wood cut down can be rafted home.
In the afternoon 25 Canoes of home guard Natives &c arrived, as did fifteen Canoes of Bungee Indians, the whole appearantly well loaded with furrs. They tell me they had a difficulty of getting down the River the Water being so Shoal."

June 5
" Satuarday fresh Gales Nly raw Cold PM sharp frost Hail and Snow
Men nearly as before. Indians too ineberated to Trade."

June 6
" Sunday Severe Cold Weather with Hail and Snow.
Engaged in Trading Room the whole day with Natives part of whom paid debts & traded. stopped 20 Beaver owing to Mr Ballenden at Severn."

June 7
" Monday part clear and part Cloudy with variable light Breezes Morning severe frost with Snow.
Sent off three Men in Canoe with Provisions for those at the Woods, also three to attend Nets and fish at ten Shilling Creek. Rest of Men as last Week. part of Natives paid Debts and Traded."

June 8
" Tuesday fresh Breezes NE part clear part Cloudy and Cold.
The Men I sent up the River yesterday return'd say they met the Men coming home. that the Water is so shallow it was with difficulty they got up with the large Canoe. that the Men are obliged to let the Timber pieces float down singly with the Current for many Miles before its made into rafts. Rest of Men as before. All the Bungee Natives paid debts and Traded. Want of good Tobacco will be soundly felt this Season, the Natives say it will oblige them to fly to the Canadians for it."

June 9
" Wednesday AM Wind and Weather as Yesterday. PM Clear and variable Breezes.
Mens employ nearly the same. two added to sick list
Bungee Natives went away, home Guard Natives paid debts and part traded. stopp'd 20 Beaver owing Mr Jefferson from a stranger who traded this day."

June 10
" Thursday fresh Breezes Sly part clear and part Cloudy & Sultry. Showers of Rain with Thunder. Muskatoes plenty.
Men came from the Woods with 27 floats of Timber sawed stuff and Stockadoes from Steel River &c. greater part they say is left as not sufficient Water is in the River upwards to float some of the larger pieces of Timber singly. indeed the River appears full of Sand banks and Shoals and at the time of low Water a continued flatt. We have not a Boat that can be worked unlefs at the time of high Water which did not raise to the usual height (of Spring Tides) by 6 feet this day. - Rest of Men as before. - Mr Sutherland much better."

June 11
" Friday Wind and Weather nearly as Yesterday. Muskatoes troublesome
All hands (Sick excepted) carrying Wood up the Bank at New York. - Took ten Indians with me up the River and haul'd the Sein caught 140 lbs of Fish. ? Deer in hedge & 1 killed by Mr Cook. We have been very succefsful with our Nets as to produce nearly two days pr Week for all hands ever since the River Ice gave way. these with the Deer has kept all my Men in a full supply of fresh Provisions blefs God!
One family of North River Indians went away and one Canoe of Bungee Indians came in paid debts traded and set off but return'd in the evening to Fleece the home Guards who took up debt for Summers hunt."

June 12
" Satuarday variable light Airs early with showers of Rain sultry with Muskatoes very troublesome. - Afterwards a thick fogg with NE Breezes and a continual heavy Rain. raw Cold.
Men as Yesterday till the Rain obliged them to leave off.
All the home guard Natives crofsed the River to hunt Deer."

June 13
" Sunday Much Snow fell last night and is deep on the ground this morning with a severe frost thawed the day tho raw Cold and strong Gales of Wind Nly. Divine Service."

June 14
" Monday AM Breezes variable Sultry Muskatoes plenty. PM fresh Gales Ely Clear & raw Cold. Much heavy Ice drove up with the Tide which left our Shores loaded with it on its ebb.
Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Labourers variously employed drying Skins collecting lime Stones & stones for foundation for Buildings. Began puting up the framing NE Curtain. - Two Natives came from acrofs the River for Ammunition having broke their Canoe on the Shoals and lost all their powder. as soon as they had a fresh supply set off."

June 15
" Tuesday Early in the morning a sharp frost and Cold and as the day advanced it became Warm and Sultry with gentle Breezes SW by W clear and fine.
Tradesmen as before. - Labourers variously employed afsisting packing furs breaking lime Stones and collecting Stones for foundations of building &c Had the Shallop hove down for Tides to float her.
Three Canoes of Bungee Indians arrived (as did one Canoe of those who set off on Wednesday last for a supply of Liquor, these last went away immediately) these Natives tell me they think it impofsible for the Englishmen to come down from the inland Settlements in large Canoes as they had a difficulty to reach the Factory in small ones.
- Sent Isaac Batt to ten Shilling Creek with two Men to Tent and attend Nets."

June 16
" Wednesday fresh Breezes Ely Clear & fine
Men nearly as before. The Shallop laid out at Anchor and long Boat hove down for Tides to float her."

June 17
" Thursday fresh Breezes Nly Clear Cold Weather.
Had long Boat and Shallop brought up to Sloops Creek. - Men as before nearly. - The Natives of Tuesday went away."

June 18
" Friday Variable fresh Breezes from N to E Clear Cold Weather.
Mefs Thomas & Sutherland with ten Men went down the River to point of Marsh haul'd the Sein no luck. Rest of Men as before."

June 19
" Satuarday Wind and Weather as before and Mens employ the same. Those hauling the Sein went up the River where they met good succefs."

June 20
" Sunday a strong Gale Ely Cloudy and Cold with heavy Rain.
Five Canoes of Natives came fom acrofs the River with dry'd Venison Tongues and fatt which they traded."

June 21
" Monday Breezes Wly Clear and fine
All hands nearly as last Week. The Natives of Yesterday went away."

June 22
" Tuesday Wind, Weather, and mens employ nearly the same.
Two Natives came from acrofs the River with green and dry'd Venison which they traded and went away."

June 23
" Wednesday Early AM Wind and Weather as Yesterday, afterwards strong Gales of Wind Nly with heavy showers of Rain Cloudy and Cold. Sent ten Men to the lower Woods to raft home Timber &c - Rest as before. Three families of North River Indians came in with furrs as did two of the same Tribe with Deer Skins and dry'd Meat. the latter paid debts and traded."

June 24
" Thursday fresh Breezes Nly part clear and part Cloudy - PM Hail and Snow very Cold.
Mens employ nearly the same. Indians paid debts and traded. One of the Bungees that set off on Thursday last return'd to have his Gun mended and went away so soon as it was repair'd. - In the evening two Canoes of home guards came in with the flesh of 6 Deer and few Fish which they traded."

June 25
" Friday Cloudy Cold Weather with Nly Gales yowards evening Hail and Snow. -
Mens employ nearly as before. - The Natives of last night went away and in the evening one Canoe of home guards arrived with green and dryed Venison which they Traded."

June 26
" Satuarday fresh Breezes E by N part Clear part Cloudy and foggy. - Early part of the day much Snow and Hail.
Men nearly as before. - The Natives of Wednesday last went away. - In the Evening two Canoes of North River Natives came in one of them a Leader of the largest gang belonging to those Tribes - He appeared on landing dejected and ashamed making so pitiful an appearance. on being asked why his young Men did not accompany him, he said a great number had afsembled together and were building their Canoes (this Spring to come down to the Factory, at the Duck Lake which is laid down in Mr Turnor's Map in Latitude 56.. 0 Long. 96.. 20) Six Canadian Pedlars came to them on foot, just before the River Ice broke up, distributed two large Rundlets of double proof spirituous Liquors (from 8 to 10 Gall each) and collected all the Furrs from his followers as well as from others who were there. He further told me, these Incroachers came so near to this Factory as the Gull Lake, not more than 120 Miles distant, and collected all the furrs from home guard Natives who wintered there. that the Canadians have a House irected between Churchill River and the Duck Lake (on the Banks of the Niscoh? O'sippee ie Goose River) where twelve Men resided all the Winter, the master of whom is an Englishmen, and as he says, a friend and acquaintance of Mr Tomison's and what is still more extraordinary, he has a list in writing of all the names of Englishmen at this Factory as well as the Natives to whom they sent invitations (who visit here) particularly to Macapatoon the head Capt. of my home guards to come to see them. - They persuaded many of the Natives that dealing with them was the same as dealing at the factory as the furrs were all carried to one common stock tho transmitted to England by different conveyances, also told the Natives they might pay their debts owing to the Honble Company's Settlements to them, it would make no difference and they would give them Credit in return. - These Natives further tell me the Pedlars have collected large quantities of furrs from the Musqua Rat and North River Indians who usually brought? great Trades to York, and mentioned by names six principal Chiefs and 44 followers who had Traded all their furrs besides part of my home guards who are debters in my Books 1195 Br. - That no lefs than three Canadian Houses are built in the very center of my best Indian Hunters from whom the principal and prime furrs were collected and on whom my increased Trade much depended - The lofs sustain'd this year to this Factory only, cannot be estimated at lefs than 4000 Beaver, and unlefs a speedy stop is put thereto this Trade will be entirely ruined. - In order to stop the depredations of these incroachers I had goods packed in readinefs last fall but no Indians came down as usual and was obliged to give it over for want of a proper pilot to conduct Englishmen. I hope your honors will pardon me if I take the liberty to send Englishmen and Canoes in the fall up to the Lakes near where the Canadians have Houses erected, it will be the only means of securing the Honble Companys interest among valuable tribes of Indians , whose Country is well stocked with valuable Furrs and all kinds of Game in plenty. - All the tribes of Natives are by nature indolently inclined, and when they can be supplied with the common necefsaries near hand will never go any distance for them, and their propensity for spirituous Liquors is such, that alone is a temptation none of then can withstand and all other articles are but as a secondary consideration with them. - The Canadians have a great advantage over us in this particular as all their Spirits are so much above proof they make 6 Kegs out of one and dispose of it at a very advanced rate when there is no one to oppose them, even for the two Rundlets they brought to the Duck Lake they carried off between 6 or 7 hundred Beaver and hired Natives to carry the furrs for them to their House which was but two short days Journey distant from where they traded.
- As spirituous Liquors are so much called for and make greatest part of our Canoe Cargoes, double proof spirits would be of great advantage, but as the Laws of England will not permit any of the kind to be exported, your honors would find great benefit in having a Still erected here. the saving would be great and one Years working would more than treble defray the expences. If proper necefsaries were sent out I would undertake, God spare me to distill sufficient for the consumption of inland Trade and take care to bring the same to account and pursue every step to drive these incroachers farther off or at least keep then at a distance from the lower Settlements."

June 27
" Sunday Wind and Weather much the same
Natives of Yesterday traded and in the afternoon four Canoes of home guards arrived from the Eastward with dryed Venison and Tongues which they traded."

June 28
" Monday Light Airs NNW Clear and fine.
Mens employ nearly as last Week. - The home guard Natives of yesterday went away and in the afternoon three Canoes arrived with green and dry'd Venison which they traded - In the evening four Canoes of half home guards came in, wretchedly poor in furrs, not sufficient to pay their contracted debts, the Pedlars having collected the greatest and best part, and used them very ill because they would not part with the remainder, they confirmed in every particular what those of Satuarday had repeated."

June 29
" Tuesday Variable light Airs and gentle Breezes all round the Compafs, Clear and fine.
Men as before."

June 30
" Wednesday very variable Breezes Clear and fine.
Sent six Men to the Woods in Boat to afsist the bringing home rafts. Rest as before. The Natives of Satuarday with those of Monday went away. As they exprefsed a great desire to have Englishmen amongst them, engaged the Chief mentioned 26th to come down in the fall with his followers to afsist the Englishmen up with Goods, and for him to make it as public as pofsible among the various tribes in that quarter. As he was going away he told me had forgot to mention, that the Canadian masters had reported among all the Indians that it was uselefs for them to visit the factories as they could never get any more good Tobacco. He told me he was fearful this report was true, for the Tobacco he had of me yesterday was good for nothing, but like that they used to have from Churchill which was the only reason of all the Indians leaving that Factory. I told him this would be remedied on the Ships arrival when I would supply them with as good Tobacco as last year. I must in justice say the Rolls of Brazil Tobacco reced from Mr Jefferson are entirely rotten and uselefs and the offering it to Natives greatly injures the Honble Companys Trade. the putting off articles of this kind of bad qualities decieves the Indians who purchase them and gives them a mean opinion of the English.
- In the evening three Canoes of Bungee Indians (of which two are Chiefs) arrived tolerable well gooded. tell me all their young Men are gone down to Severn as Mr Ballenden had promised to make most of them Captains if they would carry their Trade to him. when overturers of this kind are held out to Indians they are temptations too strong for them to withstand, and when once a Captain are always so, and drest on their arrival at other factories. there has been so many made at that Settlement within these few years that it has encreased my expences very considerably. for the drefsing of a Chief and fitting him out, exclusive of his followers, is not lefs than from 50 to 60 Beav. this is not all it gives disgust to the old Men and makes the yong ones lefs attentive to their hunting as they can be supplied with sufficient Articles with lefs trouble. I have not seen for two years past a gang of Bungee Indians came down here but there has been a Chief to every two or three Canoes. & too often a Chief in each without any followers."

July 1 1790
" Thursday fresh Breezes variable from S to SSE Sultry Weather. Muskatoes troublesome.
The Men came from the Woods with 15 Rafts of fire Wood & Timber pieces. Rest of Men as before."

July 2
" Friday Variable fresh Breezes from W to N by E part clear and part Cloudy.
All hands (sick excepted) carrying Wood up Bank. The Natives of Wednesday traded paid Debts and went away, and in the evening two Canoes of home guard Natives arrived with dry'd Venison &c which they trade. One Deer in Hedge."

July 3
" Satuarday Variable Breezes Ely Cloudy & Cold
Men engaged as yesterday. The home guard Natives of last night went away and in the evening two families came from the Eastward with dry'd Meat &c in order to accompany the Englishmen up the North River."

July 4
" Sunday Fresh Gales NE Clear Weather AM and very cold - PM a thick fog. Prayers."

July 5
" Monday AM fresh Breezes NE Cloudy with showers of rain. PM part Clear and part Cloudy.
Tradesmen as last Week. five Men afsisting packing furrs. four attending fishing Nets up the River and Deer Hedges. all the rest on New Plantation"

July 6
" Tuesday AM light showers of Rain with variable gentle Breezes. Afterwards fresh Breezes NE part Clear and part Cloudy towards Evening a dead Calm.
Sent 18 Men to Rainbow Island to raft home Timber and Firewood. also three men to Hunt and fish for them. Rest as before. I begin to be apprehensive that the shoalnefs of the River prevents the Men from returning from Inland. it is now late in the season for their Arrival which will backward those Duties very much.
- In the Evening 5 Canoes of Musqua Rat River and 2 of Northern or Athapiscow Indians arrived. the latter (are Strangers and speak a Language unknown to any of us) well gooded but the former have not sufficient to pay their contracted debts."

July 7
" Wednesday fresh Breezes Variable part Clear and part Cloudy.
Early this Morning Mefs Walker, Isham and Stayner accompanied by 51 Englishmen four Canadians and several Indians arrived in 23 large and six small Canoes from the Inland Settlements with a fine Cargo of Furrs. want of Canoes and people to man to them obliged Mr Walker to leave upwards of 4000 Made Beaver in various furrs at Cumberland. one Canoe was lost by accident coming down owing to the shoal water which was never known to be so low as at this time. Many of the poor Men are sorely wounded in their feet.
- Mr Walker brought the Melancholy News of the Death of Mr George Hudson. His Death will I am apprehensive put a stop to the Northern Expedition this Season. It is with Concern I hear Cumberland is left in a bad state without provisions Brandy or Trading Goods. And what will still more distrefs those who reside at it, is, the Canadians have a large building erected about two or three days Journey on this side (of Cumberland) which is to serve as a store House for the supply of the other Canadian settlements, and to collect Provisions &c from Natives. - This House is very conveniently situated for carrying on their Northern Trade and will enable them to push on their Undertakings with Vigour. - As the Men who are engaged to carry on the Trade will not have the trouble to go so far as the grand Carrying Place, but are to be supplied from this New Store House, where their furrs are to be deposited, this prevents lofs of Time. - and I have not a doubt but they intend to make a bold push this next Season. - I hear a new Company are formed at Montreal, and are coming in this Season with 80 large Canoe Cargoes and 5 Men in each. their intentions are I find to get a footing among the Natives who resort near your Honors lower Settlements where houses are to be built. - Some Canadian Traders made offers and attempted to engage Indians to conduct them down this River to build a House at the Hill Lake - But the Indians after they had received part of their pay gave them the slip which frustrated their designs last Year. - These people have a great Advantage over us in their strong spiritous Liquors which is a principal Article no Native can pafs while he has skins to purchase it. - And the Number of Men they have in their Service enables them to carry in execution whatever they undertake, as the Conducter of every enterprize of this kind has a share in the Undertaking which adds to their perserverance.
- Three Canoes of Trading Indians arrived with Mr Walker. - Factory men variously engaged."

July 8
" Thursday Light Airs and gentle Breezes SSW Sultry Weather Muskatoes troublesome.
The Men I sent to fish and Hunt up the River returned, say no fish is in the River nor any Game stirring. Factory Men as before. - Very few men from Inland but are under the Surgeons Care.
Two Natives in Canoes came from the Eastward with dryed Meat and Deer Skins which they traded and went away."

July 9
" Friday Wind and Weather as before and Mens Employ the same.
Three Canoes of Indians came from the Eastward with dryed Meat and Deer skins which they Traded and went away."

July 10
" Saturday Wind and Weather and Men from Inland the same, as are the Employments of those at the Factory.
The Men sent to the Woods on Tuesday last returned with 13 Ground Floats of Timber and Firewood & they say the River is become so shoal it is impofsible to bring down Rafts as was usual."

July 11
" Sunday Fresh Breezes SSW Clear and Fine Muskatoes numerous and troublesome.
Four Canoes of Natives arrived with Deer Skins and a little dryed Meat which they traded and went away."

July 12
" Monday AM Wind and Weather as before. PM veered Easterly, Cloudy, towards Evening much heavy Rain.
All the Factory men engaged carrying wood up the bank, those from Inland preparing things in readinefs for their Return.
- Malchom Rofs voluntarily offered to undertake the Expedition to the Northward, provided he had proper and capable men to accompany him - and was willing to leave his terms to the Honble Company. I readily accepted of his Conditions. I am well Convinced his Abilities are great and equal the Untertaking. but I can find no man willing to accompany him without advanced wages. - one and all, rather choose to return to England than go on so dangerous an Expediton, as they term it, without some gratuity is given beyond the common wages allowed by the Honble Company. - the Canadians have made it public that they are often driven to great extremities wintering so far to the Northward, which has deterred the principal part of your Honors Servants from venturing. - I shall make no Comments on the Canadians reports which I judge to be fallacious. - as they find it to their Interest to speak unfavorable of the pafsage to prevent others from undertaking the same."

July 13
" Tuesday Strong Gales of Wind Easterly heavy Rain all last Night which continued till this Evening.
Too bad weather to work out all hands engaged within doors preparing for Inland."

July 14
" Wednesday Cloudy Weather with variable breezes
Sent 7 Men in Boat to fourteens River for Geese who returned - Rest nearly as before.
The Athapiscow Indians with those from the Musqua Rat River went away. Sent 8 Canoes of Home Guard Natives up the River to look for Deer our stock of provisions is nearly exhausted.
- At a Council this Day engaged John Ballanden, Laughton Taylor and Peter Sabbeston as Canoe Builders and Steersmen and entered them into Contract agreeable to your Honors orders contained in the 10th Paragraph of General Letter of 1788 - Malchom Grot, John Irvin Jun. William Corrigal, John Strickler and John Allan refuse to enter into Contract on your honor's terms."

July 15
" Thursday SSW breezes part Clear and part Cloudy Flys numerous and troublesom. - Sultry towards Evening.
Men engaged nearly as before. had the Sein drawn no Luck."

July 16
" Friday Wind and Weather and Mens Employ the same. The Natives sent up the River on Wednesday returned.
- At a Council this day, engaged John Irvin Junior, William Corrigal, William Groundwater and John Wood for three Years each at 12 Pounds pr Year agreeably to your Honors determination on Servants Wages. - Also Magnus Annel at his old Wages of 20 Pounds pr Year. - And in order to prevent the Northward Expedition suffering I selected out four of the most capable Men for that Service. Viz. Hugh Leask, Malchom Grot, William Allan and Peter Brown, the former an excellent Steersman and each of the latter are young Steersmen who engaged to conduct a Canoe if required to the Northward - for Particulars I refer your Honors to their Contracts, I should not deviated from your honors Orders had it not been exprefsly mentioned that this "Undertaking was an Expedition of importance and not to be neglected". If I have acted amifs it is to be imputed to an over zealous Concern for my Employers Interest, for I well considered the high wages of Mr Philip Turnor, and the Expence it has been to your Honors, his laying inactive for nearly 12 Months, which must have been the case next Year had I not pursued the plan now taken."

July 17
" Saturday Wind and Weather nearly the same very Sultry. - Mens Employ as before. Mr Isham very ill.
- All the Home Guard Natives came from the Eastward.
Every thing is now in readinefs for men to set of on their return Inland. - But it is impofsible to tell which track they take in their pafsage back - The Water in the River is so shoal as not to admit a loaded Canoe. - Indeed the Natives say as does the Englishmen, it is impofsible to go up this with empty ones in safety. - The North River track is equally bad so says the Indians."

July 18
" Sunday Fresh Breezes variable from North to SSW Clear and fine. - Mr Isham very ill.
- Delivered out Bundles of Trading Goods, part for Swan River and part for Cumberland which Natives are to set off with to morrow."

July 19
" Monday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Muskatoes Numerous. men engaged on Inland Duties. Mr Isham contiues very ill. - The Swan River Natives set of as did two of those who came down with Mr Walkers furrs."

July 20
" Tuesday Southerly Breezes and variable part Clear and part Cloudy Sultry weather with Tremendous Thunder and Lightning. Muskatoes Numerous and Troublesome. - At times heavy showers of Rain.
- Men nearly as before. Sent three Men up the River to examine the Water if it is pafsable for Loaded Canoes. - Inland Men preparing to leave the Factory.
At a Council this Day engaged Gilbert Laughton for one Year at twenty Pounds. he refused to enter into Contract for a longer Period under 25 Pounds pr Annum, the same Wages as the Armourer at the factory has. This Man it must be acknowledged is an ingenious Workman and valuable at the Inland Settlements - As he acts in the different capacity of Armourer, Smith, Canoe and Boat Builder also as Cooper in short every businefs where ingenuity is required. - At the same time I think he takes advantage ? ? he ? too well his own abilities and entertains a notion that the Inland duties co'd not be carried on without his afsistance.
Two Canadian Strangers came down (accompanied those of last year) both are Steersmen but did not choose to enter into Contract on your honors terms as common Labourers. - Perrennee sends for the same Wages as English Steersmen, and Francis Mewit who is capable to take Charge of a House is very attentive to your Honors Interest - and leaves his terms to the Honble Company. this last appears to me to be a valuable Servant, he understands the Language of Natives exceedingly well, he has been a Trader at one of the Canadian Settlements some years but he left that employ through their Attempt to defraud him of his wages. both these Men came into your honors service the 24th July last with five other Canadians (vide Cumberland House Journal) and have Continued from that time and done the Duties the same as any other of your Honors contracted Servants. - the five other Canadains who accompanied them did not receive that encouragement they expected from us, returned into their old Employ - The Men and part of the Masters Inland appear to be prejudiced against them, for what reasons I cannot learn except their being from a different Country. - And one and all agreed not to enter a Canoe with them down and told me I must expect much trouble to get them back, but should any one refuse to take them as Canoe Mates without giving some just cause, it is my determination to make examples of them by sending them to England to answer their Conduct personally before your honors.
- Francis Mewit, Perrennee and Anthony Godda (of last Year) will continue in this Employ till your honors determination are received.
- The New Boat began last fall is at last finished and I ventured in her so far as New York. I must say she is a disgrace to the Factory and a person runs in danger of losing his life by going into her. Yet she stands your honors in upwards of 20£ exclusive of Timber, Plank and Iron work. I have only reckoned the Shipwrights and Afsistants Wages in this Expence. - Yet more still? has been wasted in this uselefs Vefsel than would built two good boats. this must convince your honors that Robert Farrer is unfit for the Duties he engaged to perform and I am well convinced here are several better workmen and more capable than he is at 6£ pr Annum."

July 21
" Wednesday Variable Light Airs and at times sudden gusts of wind with showers of Rain.
Men nearly as before
Sent 12 Canoes of Natives up the River to look for Deer."

July 22
" Thursday Wind and Weather as before. Mens Employ the same."

July 23
" Friday Light Breezes variable at times sudden gusts of wind Sultry Weather. Cargoes for Canoes delivered out and 64 Men preparing to leave the Factory, rest as before.
The Natives I sent up the River on Wednesday returned unsuccefsful. - No Game of any Sort stirring. - The Men also returned and reports favorable of the Water so that it has determined Mr Walker to proceed back in his old Track."

July 24
" Saturday Wind and Weather and Mens employ the same."

July 25
" Sunday AM Light Breezes Sotherly part Clear and part Cloudy with showers od Rain. - PM Gusts of Wind, much heavy Rain. Cloudy with Thunder and Lightning.
Fifteen Men in 5 large Canoes - with Indians in 3 small ones, set of with Trading Goods to the Inland Settlements."

July 26
" Monday A Hurricane of Wind with a continued heavy Rain.
Too bad Weather to work out. Tents obliged to be struck. The Shallop drove from her stocks? and boats from their Moorings and it was with difficulty they were secured."

July 27
" Tuesday Strong Gales NE early in the Morning. - Afterwards variable breezes N b W part Clear and part Cloudy.
About 9 AM Mr Walker took leave accompanied by Mr Stayner and 35 Englishmen set off in Twelve Canoes for the Inland Settlements. Mr Ishams bad State of health detains him and Men at the Factory. - he will set off so soon as he is able to undertake the Journey. - At which time the Names of the Old Servants left down at the Factory will be inserted. - The new or Young hands from the factory who accompanied Mr Walker and party are Harvey Hay, Thomas Brown, Thomas Linklater, Robert Linklater, John Thompson, Benjamin Bruce, Alexander Johnson, James Sinclair, Archibald Copeland, John Ward, Nicholas Leigh and John Wood besides Isaac Batt.
- The Party appointed for the Expedition to the Northward are Malchom Rofs in Charge of the Trading Goods. Hugh Leask, William Allen, Peter Brown and Malchom Grot who are to take in Mr Turnor and Peter Fidler at Cumberland. I also engaged an Indian to accompany them in a small Canoe as far as the Athapiscow Lake which is 10 Days Journey beyond the Slave Lake."

July 28
" Wednesday AM Wind and Weather as Yesterday with showers of Rain afterwards part Clear part Cloudy with light Airs variable and sultry.
Tradesmen at their respective Occupations rest packing furrs. Mr Isham and party preparing to leave the Factory to Morrow."

July 29
" Thursday fresh Gales Easterly part Clear part Cloudy with thick Fog.
Early this Morning sent off two Natives with a Packet to Churchill.
This Morning Tide Mr Isham, James Bird, 8 Englishmen and 4 Canadians set of in four large Canoes with Trading Goods to Swan River. - I sent James Bird Writer with Mr Isham to Minute down his daily Journals and take care of the Cargo in case any thing should happen. Mr Ishams health is in a very precarious state.
Those who accompanied Mr Isham are James Bird Writer, John Irvin Senior, John Ballanden and Laughton Taylor Steersmen and Canoe Builders, John Johnson Senior John Johnson Junior as Bowsmen - William Mowat Taylor, Peter Hutchinson and Alexander Thompson Young hands - Francis Mewit and Anthony Godda, Perrennee and Charles Tuffel deLaire. These 4 are Canadian Steersmen. Godda and Mewit are Canoe Builders. Mr Isham chose these 4 men in preference to others for their activity and expertnefs in building Houses and to afsist him in building Canoes, he expects to bring down a large Number of New ones next Season and intends to hire Indians for that purpose of afsisting the above Steersmen.
The Canoes left down requires much repairing and the greater part will be wanted to convey Tobacco to the Settlements in the fall and Goods up the North River, where I hope to stop the depradations of the Canadian Traders who have done your honors much Injury this Season. - The Men from Inland left at the Factory are David Thompson your honors Apprentice, - Magnus Twatt, George Rofs, John Kirknefs and Halcro Smith for the Surgeons Afsistance, Edward Wishart, ordered home. Andrew Davey, John Strickler and John Allen whose Contracts expire at Ship time and will not agree to the Honble Companys terms - John Sabbeston remains to take up a Canoe in the Fall. - Also James Batt? who refused staying Inland and came down to the Factory contrary to Mr Walkers exprefs orders which necefsiated him to leave one Canoe Cargoe of Goods at Cumberland as a more capable man was obliged to be left to supply his place at the Inland Settlements.
- In justice to the Men who arrived from Inland I must declare they behaved the most orderly of any preceeding year since I have been in the Country, and I scarcely heard a murmur amongst them during their stay. but they promise to do great things when their old Master arrives whom they expect out pr Ship.
Factory Men variously employed packing Furrs &c from Inland. Mr Walker joined with me in this thinking it would expedite Businefs and prevent confusion settling businefs for so many settlements at one Time.
David Thompson has all the accounts - he is to attend the package and making up the Books. It will be a great lofs to your honors having so many bundles of furrs left at Cumberland."

July 30
" Friday Easterly Breezes fine Clear weather, Mens employ as Yesterday.
Several Canoes of Home Guard Natives set of towards the North River to wait the Deer Crofsing and convey the Venison to the Store house at Flamborough."

July 31
" Saturday Wind and Weather asnd Mens employ nearly the same except 4 Men who prepared Buoys and Beacons.
Sent some Indians up the River hunting. others to the Eastward and a few up the North River to try for fish. Furrs traded and packed belonging to York since the departure of the Ship 8475 465/720"

Aug. 1 1790
" Sunday Variable Light Airs and Gentle Breezes part Clear and part Cloudy with Rain.
Got Buoys and Beacons on board the Longboat also Salt and Casks ready for Flamborough Store House."

Aug. 2
" Monday AM Thick Fog with variable Breezes NNE afterwards fresh Breezes Eastly Clear weather Too thick Weather to set Beacons when tide served. - began taking Stock and putting down Old Launch.
The Remainder of Home Guard Natives left the Factory to kill Deer up the North River one family excepted. Our want of provisions is again great."

Aug. 3
" Tuesday Early AM Gentle Breezes Clear weather afterwards strong Gales Northerly. Cloudy cold weather.
Set five fathom Sand Beacon. Men attempted to go to Flamborough in Long Boat but the weather obliged them to return it blows too strong to get round the Point of Marsh. - Rest of Men as Yesterday.
In the Evening five Canoes of Natives arrived says the River is so shoal they were obliged to hand down their small Canoes in many Places. & that one Canoe of Englishmen are returning to the Factory unable to proceed farther."

Aug. 4
" Wednesday Cloudy weather with variable Breezes ENE and Northerly towards Evening showers of rain.
Sent William Sinclair and three Men to Flamborough to receive Venison from Natives and Salt it in Casks. - Three Men in Long Boat afsisting them with things. Began the framing of Launch for New York - Rest of Men variously employed packing furrs &c.
Mr Stayner and one man came to the Factory with their Canoe and Cargo of Trading Goods unable to proceed owing to the shoal Water and badnefs of their Tracking Lines which broke several times. for particulars I refer your honors to Mr Walkers Letter. Indeed I am fearful the Low Water in the River will prevent your honors Inland Servants reaching the upper Settlements before the fall sets in, and I am apprehensive the Danger of coming will drive many an Indian from this Factory for its impofsible to go up and down in small Canoes in safety this dry Season.
- In the Year 1788 after the heavy deluge and the Summer of 1789, the Depth of Water at the time of low tide was from 1 to 1/2 and 2 fathoms between the old and New Plantation. - And this day the River was so shoal I could not get up an empty boat. In the Channel facing where I had the Launch House erected there was found at the time of laying the foundation, sufficient depth of water for the Severn Sloop to come up and unload at low tide, is now allmost a dry Sand Bank with a small Ripple running in places.
- Part of the Natives of last Night traded and paid Debts. In the Evening an old Indian Chief and Family came in with a few Summer skins (he is one of those mentioned the 26th June) had no followers. says his young men are ashamed to come to the Factory."

Aug. 5
" Thursday Moderate Breezes NE Cloudy Weather PM Rain
Mens Employ as Yesterday. One Canoe of Natives went away. - And in the Evening the Long Boat returned from Flamborugh House brought a few fish and Ducks from Natives mentioned Saturday last."

Aug. 6
" Friday Wind and Weather nearly as Yesterday and Mens employ the same.
The Remainder of Natives of Tuesday traded took up Winter Debt and went away say they will send for Tobacco in the Fall."

Aug. 7
" Saturday Variable Breezes part Clear and part Cloudy. Mens employ the same - Sent four men in Boat to afsist one Family acrofs the River to Hunt for us as we have no provisions now remaining."

Aug. 8
" Sunday Variable fresh Breezes from E b N to West Clear weather.
The Natives who traded Yesterday went away and one Canoe of Bungees came in with dryed Meat and Deer skins."

Aug. 9
" Monday fresh Breezes variable clear pleasant weather
Had the double headed Beacon set and remainder of Buoys laid. - Sent four Men in Long boat with Salt and empty Hogsheads to Flamborough Store house. - Rest of Men nearly as last Week. - The Bungees of last Night Traded and went away."

Aug. 10
" Tuesday Fresh Breezes NNE and variable part Clear and part Cloudy towards Evening Rain with Thunder at a distance. - Began laying Cellar foundations of the South flanker - Rest of Men nearly as before.
Two Natives came from the Eastward and two from the Northward with a few Ducks and Plover which they Traded and went away."

Aug. 11
" Wednesday Wind and Weather nearly as before and Mens employ the same."

Aug. 12
" Thursday Variable Breezes all round the Compafs Clear Weather. - Thunder at a Distance which became loud towards Evening with Lightning and heavy Rain - blowing strong.
Men returned with Long Boat from Flambrough. Began Stone Foundation of the East Flanker. Rest of Men nearly as before.
Two Natives arrived with the Flesh of a small Deer and 3 Geese. Also the Indians I sent up the River the 31st of last Month returned unsuccefsful, say they saw no Deer crofsing only brought one Beaver and one Porcupine."

Aug. 13
" Friday A Storm of Wind NE b E very Cloudy with heavy Rain which increased to such violence as to carry away both Beacons, broke down our Launch and shattered it to pieces - Drove all our Craft from their Moorings, Sunk the Long Boat and two others. it was with Difficulty we saved the two latter, the long boat remains under Water. - Many Yards of the bank washed away by the Tide which was many Feet higher than the usual Spring tides.
All hands engaged the whole day collecting the Pieces of Launch together and saving the boats. During the Storm the Severn Sloop hove in Sight and providentially drove up the River unable to carry Sail and about Noon Mefs Ballenden and Moore Landed, also J P Whitford Writer very ill."

Aug. 14
" Saturday Variable Light Breezes Clear weather.
All hands engaged repairing and putting down Launch. Severn Sailors afsisting weighing the Long Boat, but we are so distrefsed for Rope we have not any in the Factory of sufficient strength to buoy her up and am apprehensive she must remain under water 'till the arrival of the Ship. Had Beacons made which I hope to have set tomnorrow.
The Natives of Thursday went away."

Aug. 15
" Sunday AM thick foggy weather with light Breezes variable PM More Clear.
Had the Long Boat weighed and brought on shore. - but it gives me concern to find the Injury done, her gunwales being torn of, several of her Planks broke, besides her thwarts lost and we have not a foot of Wainscot in the Factory to repair her. - One man came from Flamborough House for a few Necefsaries. - Too thick weather in the Morning to set Beacons. Mr Whitford very ill.
Two Natives came from the Eastward with a few Ducks and soon after went away. - And in the Evening my packet Men arrived with Letters from Churchill."

Aug. 16
" Monday Light Airs and Gentle Breezes SSE part Clear part Cloudy with Rain.
Had Beacons set in Lieu of those carried away by the heavy Gale on Friday. Had old Launch finished. - this accident hath been a great hinderance in the forwardnefs of our work as what we had got ready for the New Launch has been obliged to be worked up in repairing the old one, besides the lofs of Mens time. Severn homeward bound Cargo landed at New York, and delivered Mr Moore his Signal Instructions on the sight of a Vefsel in the Offing. he has Orders to drop down the River to Morrow, - Severn Shipwright repairing the Long Boat - Sent 4 Men in Shallop to Flamborough with Salt &c. the Man who came from there Yesterday accompanied them."

Aug. 17
" Tuesday Wind as before with thick fog.
Carpenters and afsistants at New Launch. Part of Labourers collecting stones for New York and others for ship. rest of men variously engaged. - Saw a fire a French Creek, also one at Ten Shilling Creek sent Men in boats to each place who returned with two parties of Indians with a few Deer skins and Geese."

Aug. 18
" Wednesday Wind NE Cloudy foggy weather.
Men nearly as before. Severn Sloop dropt down the River early this Morning but was obliged to come to an anchor near the old Battery House the fog became so thick. Part of Natives of last Night were afsisted acrofs the River and one party set of towards Flamborough to Hunt Deer. - Mr Whitford continues very ill."

Aug. 19
" Thursday Light Airs variable foggy Weather
Mens Employ the Same. Two Natives came from the Eastward with a few Ducks which they traded and went away."

Aug. 20
" Friday Wind and Weather and Mens Employ the Same.
Two Canoes of Natives came from Flamborough with Green Venison which they Traded and went away. blefs God for these supplies it has enabled me to serve out two day Provision to my poor men. - Two home Guard Natives set of to their Winter Quarters and soon after three Canoes of Bungee Indians arrived with a few Furrs which they traded took up Winter Debt and went away, after being promised Tobacco when the Ship arrives. - and to be delivered them by Englishmen when they go from hence to the Inland Settlements. These Natives brought a Letter from Mr Isham. vide Country Correspondence."

Aug. 21
" Saturday Wind the Same with Clear Sultry Weather. Mens Employ nearly the Same. Severn Carpenters finished the Long Boat. William Smith &c in Shallop arrived from Flamborough with 13 Hogsheads of Salted Venison and a few Deer skins. the Bountiful Goodnefs of God is great sending these Supplies when our wants ? so much requires it.
Two Natives came from the Eastward with a few small Birds and went away. In the afternoon 4 Canoes of Bungee Indians arrived tolerable well Loaded with furrs."

Aug. 22
" Sunday AM fresh Breezes Variable from SE to NE Clear and Sultry with Thunder at a Distance PM Cloudy with heavy Rain."

Aug. 23
" Monday Wind Variable from NE to NW Cloudy Weather
Sent of five Men in Boat to the fourteens River for Salt. Unloaded Shallop. Had the Long Boat rigged. Tradesmen as last Week. Severn Shipwright afsisting at New Launch.
The Natives of Saturday traded took up Debt and set of for their Winter Quarters."

Aug. 24
" Tuesday Strong Gale N b E part Clear part Cloudy with heavy Rain part of the day.
Late last Night the Men with Boat returned from the fourteens Rivers. This Morning's Tide, A Signal was hoisted on board the Severn Sloop that a Vefsel was in Sight and soon after the Honble Company's Ship Signal was heard, but it blowed too strong to come into five fathom Hole. Mens Employ nearly as Yesterday till the Afternoon when all hands were engaged working pile driving Machine for the making foundations for Launch at New York."

Aug. 25
" Wednesday Variable Breezes part Clear and part Cloudy.
Mens Employ the same. This Morning's Tide the Ship Seahorse came to an Anchor in five fathom Hole and about Noon Captain Hanwell and Mr Tomison arrived at the Factory. delivered your Honors packet and 2 Casks of Meat.
Shallop and Long Boat dropt down the River."

Aug. 26
" Thursday NW Breezes part Clear and part Cloudy with showers of rain.
Severn Sloop came up as did the Long Boat and Shallop. Entered on your Honors Books James Spence Steersman, James Oman Bowsman engaged in London at [Blank] Nicholas Allan, Magnus Borston?, John Gun, John Forbest, John Davey, John Paplay, Donald Mowatt, John Mowatt, John Rofs, William Sinclair, Alexander Gun and William Budge. also James Smith at 12 £ pr Annum each for 5 Years."

Aug. 27
" Friday fresh Gales NW Cloudy Weather with Rain
Finished Launch at New York and began landing Cargo. Part of Men packing Brazil Tobacco for Inland proves very bad. Mr Tomison much distrefsed in Consequence. Captain Duncan and Mr Auld came on shore."

Aug. 28
" Saturday Wind more moderate and Clear
all the Craft came up and unloaded at New York. Sent factory Long Boat to Flamborough to bring home venison & things. Many Natives came in."

Aug. 29
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday
Ships Long Boat dropt down the River to Ship"

Aug. 30
" Monday Mizzling Rain with SE Breezes towards Evening heavy Rain
Severn Sloop Ships Long Boat and Shallop came up, the two latter unloaded and dropt down the River. Severn Sloop part unloaded. Captain Hanwell went on board."

Aug. 31
" Tuesday Heavy Rain with variable Breezes Cloudy weather and heavy Rain
Shallop and Severn Sloop dropt down the River to Ship. the Ships Long Boat came up and unloaded. Captain Hanwell came on shore."

Sept. 1 1790
" Wednesday Heavy Gales of Wind NE b N Cloudy with Rain.
Ships Long Boat and Shallop run up. too bad weather too unload the Latter"

Sept. 2
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterday 'till the afternoon when it became more moderate
Remainder of Severn Sloop and small Craft unloaded, the latter dropt down to Ship. Severn Sloop took up part of homeward bound Cargo."

Sept. 3
" Friday Breezes Variable Clear and fine Weather
The Severn Sloop dropt down to Ship in the Nights Tide and the small Craft came up. The Long Boat and Men returned from Flamborough with their things and 3 Hogsheads of Salt Venison. The Venison procured at Flamborough House and Salted is 16 Hogsheads. 10,331 lbs a great help. blefs God.
Many Natives came in with a few furrs and deer skins. two came from the Eastward with Geese and Ducks. Not lefs that 50 families of Indians now on the Plantation which cause confusion at such a busy time as the receiving Cargo from Ship and preparing for Inland. The factory Men are to few to for the necefsary duties"

Sept. 4
" Saturday fine pleasant Weather with variable Light Breezes N b E
The small Craft dropt down the River early. Ship and Factory Long Boats came up and unloaded. the Severn Sloop also? came up and part of her Cargo landed. Men engaged part of the day packing furrs.
About 2 PM Mr Tomison accompanied by 11 Englishmen in 4 large Canoes loaded with Trading Goods set off for the Inland Settlements. - I am sorry to say he has taken all the Steersmen, one excepted with him. and notwithstanding all my entreaties - could not prevail on him to leave any capable Men to afsist Mr Cook up the North River therefore I cannot push on that expedition equal my wish this fall.
Eight Canoes of Natives arrived loaded with Deer skins and small furrs."

Sept. 5
" Sunday Wind and Weather nearly as Yesterday.
Engaged the whole day trading with Natives. - Packing furrs. Unloading Severn Sloop and reloading her with home ward bound Cargo. Shallop came up and Severn Sloop dropt down to Ship.
Mr Cook and 9 Men packing Goods for the North River Expedition."

Sept. 6
" Monday Variable Breezes Cloudy with heavy Rain. Unloaded Shallop and put on board the last of the homeward bound Cargo the weather is so unfavorable obliges many Deer skins and much Coat Beaver to be left at the Factory. The latenefs of the Season make us apprehensive that the detaining of the Ship might distrefs Churchill Settlement. But should the weather prove fine to morrow Captain Hanwell intends to stay the packing the Remainder of the skins.
- In the afternoon discharged from your honors Service Robert Farrer Shipwright and Boat Builder for bad behaviour and incapacity (in justice to this Young Man I must say he acknowledged his incapacity when he first engaged and was willing to have stayed at the Factory on low Wages - but Captain Tunstall insisted on his being entered into Contract at 36 Pounds Pr Year) William Dean Labourer, Robert Sinclair Carpenter and Edward Brown Sawyer who would not stay on your honors terms. It is most Sincerely hoped your honors will give directions that neither of the 2 last mentioned Men are permitted to return again into the Country at the advanced wages of Tradesmen which is their view leaving the Service at this Time. and should their terms be agreed to, would be the means of many of your honors Servants hereafter taking the same Liberty. for altho' they are very useful men, they learned a businefs within five Years at the Honble Company's Expence and expects the wages now of established Tradesmen.
William Sinclairs ill state of health obliges him to return for advice and afsistance. he is a valuable Young Man and one who would be service-able Inland.
Entered Robert Gowland on our Books as Shipwright for Severn and engaged John Harrison to stay at York for one Year in Room of Robert Farrer Shipwright sent home."

Sept. 7
" Tuesday North Wind part Clear part Cloudy sharp frost this Morning upwards of sixty families of Indians on the Plantation. Mr Cook and 11 Men preparing to set of up Nelson River to Morrow to build a House at Duck Lake.
About Noon closed the Packet and delivered it to Captain Hanwell pray God send the Ship Sea Horse in safety to England. Amen.

Errors Excepted Jos. Colen."


1M160 B.239/a/90

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