" A Diary of occurrences at York Factory
Hudson's Bay North America by
Joseph Colen Resident.
Commencing September 26th 1791
Ending ----September 11 1792"


Sept. 26
" Monday Breezes Easterly which towards Evening veered Northerly Cloudy. Unloaded shallop & long boat & sent them to the ship with stones. Severn Sloop took in remainder of Cargo for that settlement. In the Evening closed the packet and delivered the same to Capt. Hanwell.
Long boat & shallop came up."

Sept. 27
" Tuesday AM Calm Cloudy weather with a continual rain. PM Breezes E by S. This morning tide Mr Moore took leave and Severn Sloop dropt down the river. Captain Hanwell also took leave and went on board ship. Sent down Sloop Churchill to afsist piloting out the ship."

Sept. 28
" Wednesday AM fresh Breezes E by S cloudy with mizzling rain. PM strong gales from the same quarter very thick cloudy weather with heavy rain.
This morning tide the Sloop Severn got under way & sailed. Prepared letters & closed the packet for Churchill. In the morning men variously employed 'till the weather obliged them to leave off."

Sept. 29
" Thursday AM thick cloudy weather with NW breezes and variable to NE PM mizzling rain.
Mr Sutherland came from the Marsh no luck. thirty men preparing for the woods to morrow. - Too bad weather for Churchill packet men to set off."

Sept. 30
" Friday AM strong Gales NE by E cloudy at times sleet & rain. PM gale increased with thick Snow very cold.
Sent thirty men to Rainbow Island to raft home firewood &c. nine on board sloop. rest variously engaged."

Oct. 1 1791
" Saturday Gale continues with unabated violence with thick drifting snow.
I am very apprehensive for the safety of the ship & sloops as the launch at New York was carried away during the night and the old one at this Factory rendered a mere wreck, besides two boats swamped in the creek. Blefs god the Churchill shallop drove up the river (after her cable had given way) with the lofs of her boat. And soon after the Severn Sloop put into the river to appearance a mere wreck.
Mr Moore informs me that soon after he weighed Anchor and left the river he met with such heavy gales of wind that he never before experienced the Like, that the sloop was in the greatest danger of foundering, being so much strained as to open her seams, which let in such large quantities of water that the men were obliged to be almost continually at the pumps to keep her up. that the Guns, wash boards, water casks & every thing on deck were washed overboard, the Boat stoved? and the Sails split. Every one on board were apprehensive they should not be able to reach any place of safety, and in order to save their own lives had agreed to run the sloop on shore when they very fortunately made this river. the damage done to the sloop is very considerable which would take a long time to repair. Mr Moore also tells me it is impofsible to reach Severn this fall with the Sloop as it would not only endanger the Vefsel & Cargo but risk the lives of the Sloops crew. Made an offer of the Churchill Sloop but the majority of the crew refused the attempt of going to Severn so late in the season."

Oct. 2
" Sunday Wind & Weather much the same 'till the afternoon when it became more moderate & cold
Held a council in consequence of the Severn Sloop's returning and to consult the best method for the supply of that settlement and to justify our proceedings. took the deposition of the Master and Sloop's crew, that your honours may be acquainted? with particulars as early as pofsible as I intend sending the same to the ship to morrow if weather permits."

Oct. 3
" Monday Fine sharp weather with variable breezes NW much ice in the south channel of this river. The evening remarkably severe. sent letters to the ship with a few vegetables & fresh provisions, soon after she weighed anchor and sailed. God be praised she is at last out of this river for I have been in great anxiety for her safety. - It is natural to suppose from the large quantity of ice now driving in the river that had she stayed she would been soon surrounded and froze in when there would be little probability of saving ? Ship or cargo as from appearance I expect an early setting in of winter, Pray God send the ship Sea Horse a safe & speedy pafsage to England Amen.
Had a temporary Launch erected and landed part of the Severn cargo. - it gives me concern to find so much damage done to the Stores & Goods on board her by the water which she took on thro' her seams - Too much ice on this river for the Churchill packet men to crofs over to Nelson River. - Severn sailors getting themselves in readinefs to set off to morrow overland to that settlement."

Oct. 4
" Tuesday Breezes NW Cloudy very severe cold. Ice driving in this channel very thick & heavy
Sent George Foreman Mate, Robert Gowland Carpenter, James Sutherland, Thomas Huntley and Beakie Goudie Sailors & Thomas Flett Taylor to Severn in order to afsist collecting next years firewood for that settlement. Mr Thomas Wiegan Writer also accompanied them, and it being so late in the season Mr Thomas Thomas the elder Surgeon requested to attend them in case of accident which I readily granted having another Surgeon here.
Mr Moore sloop Master, Cha. Kitson and William Golding sailors, John Jennings writer and John Moad belonging to Severn winters at this place.
Sent five men in boats to recover as many of the buoys as pofsibly they can. - The rest of the people employed rafting down & landing the Launch at New York which was carried away bodily? up the river - In the afternoon all hands engaged Landing Severn Cargo
I am sorry to remark that on relanding the Severn sloop's cargo I discovered a vast number of articles of Stores and Trading Goods which did not belong to that settlement. this is what I long suspected as I have often mifsed many things after they have been taken off in the check book. - I used every precaution to guard against such transactions and had a warehouse built purposely to keep the Severn Cargo separate from that belonging to York, notwithstanding this I find the sailors or whoever it is cannot leave off embezzling whatever they could with convenience carry away unperceived."

Oct. 5
" Wednesday Wind & weather much the same, remarkably severe for the season of the year. Much heavy ice driving in the river which obliged me to lay up the Churchill Sloop in her winters birth with part of her Cargo Bricks & Coals on board and before I had opportunity to overhaul her ? I took an inventory of her stores, sorry am I to say I never saw a Vefsel so bare, scarcely any thing left onboard - Indeed I find the ship sailors are very improper people to be intrusted with any vefsel belonging to the country, as they commit the greatest havock among the stores - they have not left half of the Main sail, the rest I judge they have taken away to make themselves trowsers.
Had severn Sloop hauled off from Launch ready to be laid up tomorrow. Got the Long boat on shore in hopes the weather will yet prove favourable to fish for the anchors left in five fathom hole. the men down there yesterday tells me the ship has left one of hers behind. Part of the men stowing away & overhauling Severn stores & separating the damaged grain & bread from that which has not been wetted by the bilge water. - Rest collecting part of the wreck of old Launch and stowing it away at New York. One of the Churchill packet men very lame. employed both the Indians making and mending snow shoes as it is impofsible for them to set of for that settlement before Nelson River is froze over."

Oct. 6
" Thursday Wind & weather the same.
The men sent to the woods the 30th Ult. were obliged to return without the firewood and timber. they tell me that it was with difficulty they got the boat down the river is so full of ice. Rainbow gut is set fast last night and fourteen rafts of wood are froze in. Laid up Severn Sloop. Served out leather Togies to the young hands and Beaver caps and mittens to all the men people variously employed.
Mr Moore at times very bad with Epileptic fits."

Oct. 7
" Friday Wind & weather the same. river close from side to side with heavy ice and the south channel is set fast. Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Labourers variously employed opening Stores and Trading Goods. On weighing the Stockfish find no more than 53 lbs landed in this article only? we are deficient 731 lbs. No sour Krout is to be found among the Stores and we find a deficiency also of several other articles and instead of eight Coils of tracking lines for Inland only one is to be found. no more than barely sufficient for six or seven canoes."

Oct. 8
" Saturday Wind and weather the same and Mens employ nearly as before. Saw four Men crofs from the opposite shore to the flats near New York but they could not proceed farther on account of the rapid current running between the fields of ice in this channel - We judge the men to be part of those who set off for Severn on Tuesday last. it is out of my power to put a boat into the river to their relief."

Oct. 9
" Sunday Wind and Weather the same. Divine Service.
The river ice upwards set fast, five weeks earlier than ever I before knew it to be froze over."

Oct. 10
" Monday Wind the same, weather more moderate and clear.
Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Three men unbending and drying sails belonging to the crafts. Twelve grinding oatmeal, rest removing Goods from Launch house to the Ware Houses and collecting wood together cut down around New York."

Oct. 11
" Tuesday Fresh breezes Northerly cloudy and severe.
All the men who set off for Severn this day week returned to the factory unable to proceed on account of the severity of the weather not having their winter cloathing with them. they say the river is set fast very rough. This channel open abreast the factory and below. Sent eleven men to haul the Sloops in near shore, dry sails &c. rest nearly as before."

Oct. 12
" Wednesday Wind as before weather more clear severe.
The winter season appears now to be set in, therefore am obliged to give up all hopes of going down the river this fall. am very apprehensive that both the ship and sloops anchor will be lost. Had all the boats taken up to their winters birth. Having such additional number of Men at this Factory besides those at New York obliged to erect temporary accomodations, the rest of men not employed on the above named duties nearly as yesterday."

Oct. 13
" Thursday Wind and Weather as yesterday
Sent Severn sailors with five men belonging to the factory to heave in Sloop's cables (they are now in their winters birth) Rest of men as before."

Oct. 14
" Friday Northerly gales cloudy with drifting snow very severe cold.
Sent Nicholas Spence Pateroon with eight men to erect tent beyond the crofs deer hedge. - Five men hunting game, remarkably scarce. rest as before."

Oct. 15
" Saturday SSW Clear fine and thawing. towards the Evening Wind vered Northerly cold and freezing.
Mens employ as before."

Oct. 16
" Sunday Fresh breezes NW very severe and cloudy. Divine service."

Oct. 17
" Monday Wind and weather nearly as yesterday at intervals drifting snow. Sent 17 men to Tent and cut down wood beyond the crofs deer hedge on this side the four mile gully. - A lot of firewood I have had in reserve some years with an intent to send men to cut down when they could not reach their winter quarters farther off, which happened to be the case this season. Sent four men to tent and hunt near old Flambro' House, four to ten shilling Creek and four to French Creek. Sent part of the Severn men to the hunting tent 'till the weather becomes more settled, when travelling will be more safe. - as I intend to send all those who returned last Tuesday to that settlement. I feel for Mr Ballanden whose anxiety must be great.
Tradesmen at their respective occupations, rest variously employed. An Indian woman died on the plantation."

Oct. 18
" Tuesday Wind the same weather more clear
Three men digging a Grave and interring the Corpse of the Indian woman who died last night. Labourers at home cutting down woods at New York, rest as before."

Oct. 19
" Wednesday Breezes NE cloudy and mild for the season.
Four men preparing things in readinefs to go to a hunting tent to morrow, rest as before."

Oct. 20
" Thursday Wind and Weather the same.
Mefs Thomas & Sutherland with two Men set off to Tent and hunt at the eight mile island. - Three men afsisting them with their things. Rest nearly as before. Three men came from Ten Shilling Creek with 91lbs of fish and returned to their tent."

Oct. 21
" Friday Wind and weather nearly the same, more clear PM
The men who accompanied the hunting party of yesterday returned. Mr Sutherland sends word that he never saw a River set fast with the ice so rough at this Season. that it was with difficulty he crofsed to the eight mile island. Rest of men as before."

Oct. 22
" Saturday Breezes SWclear fine and mild
Two men came from Ten shilling Creek and two from French Creek hunting tents with a few Rabbits and Fish. - Rest as before, except eight wooders who came for provisions and they returned to their tent."

Oct. 23
" Sunday wind more Westerly, weather the same 'till towards Evening cloudy with light snow - Divine service. The Hunters of yesterday went to their respective tents."

Oct. 24
" Monday Fresh breezes Northerly. Cloudy and cold
Two men employed making of sleds for the accomodation of the Men going to Severn, Rest employed nearly as last week. In the afternoon two men came from Flamborough Hunting tent with a few Rabbits. - they say Game of all kinds is very scarce."

Oct. 25
" Tuesday AM Wind and Weather the same PM Breezes SSW cloudy with light snow. Mens employ the same. Hunters of yesterday waiting the making of sleds."

Oct. 26
" Wednesday Breezes Northerly part clear part cloudy
The Hunters of Monday went to their Tent. rest as before."

Oct. 27
" Thursday Fresh gales Northerly Cloudy and Cold
Men nearly as before. - In the afternoon two indians arrived with a packet from Severn."

Oct. 28
" Friday Wind more moderate clear and severe.
Sent one man with Letters to the Tent on eight Mile island.
Rest nearly as before."

Oct. 29
" Saturday Variable breezes cloudy & severe. Mr Moore Sloop Master very ill in strong Epileptic Fit the whole day. Two men came from each of the three hunting tents near the Factory with a few fish and Rabbits. Rest of men as before."

Oct. 30
" Sunday Wind nearly the same more clear and severe.
About 4 O'Clock this morning died Mr William Moore Master of the Sloop Severn. he had been for three years past troubled with an Epilepsy complaint which it is supposed increased with greater violence from the agitation and anxiety of his mind during the late Gales when the sloop was in such danger of foundering.
The Hunters of yesterday went to their respective tents. gave orders for all those belonging to Severn to come to the Factory with their beding. - Mr Thomas came from his tent. Divine Service."

Oct. 31
" Monday Wind Northerly cloudy at times light snow
Two men making a Coffin. - four digging a Grave. David Thompson engaged with Mr Thomas Wiegan &c looking over Stores and taking an inventory of late Mr Moore's effects. Mr Thomas went to his tent. Two men came from Flambro' Hunting tent with a few rabbits and partridges. - Severn men getting their things in readinefs to set off on Thursday."

Nov. 1 1791
" Tuesday Wind and Weather the same with light snow.
Mefs Sutherland and Thomas came from their tent. Rest of Men nearly as before. In the afternoon interred the remains of Mr William Moore at New York."

Nov. 2
" Wednesday Wind more Westerly weather nearly as before.
Mefs Sutherland and Thomas went to their Tent as did the Hunter from Flamborough to his. rest as before. Prepared Letters and packed up goods for Mr Ballanden at Severn. To prevent difsension among the Sailors, and by the advice of my officers, I acquainted George Foreman that he was to act as temporary sloop master and see after the Stores &c until it was further determined by the council and appointed James Sutherland as Mate. - tho' I am sorry to remark the former is a person universally disliked. the Sailors say that neither his advice or afsistance is ever required by any one at Sea lefs than any place else. - But his being judged qualified by Captain Tunstall for the birth as Mate of the Sloop it was not for me to determine otherwise but that he was equally qualified for master also. - As James Sutherland is not only a good sailor but a correct observer and much respected in this country. - and his having served his apprenticeship in your honours service. I thought by appointing him as mate he would be a great afsistance in navigating the sloop to and from Severn, he promises to exert himself in that station 'till the Honourable Committee determines on a proper person to succeed Mr Moore. The master of a vefsel should not only be a skilful sailor but proficient in nautical knowledge. - I intend to collect every information, which I shall transmit for your honours to determine on their respective qualifications."

Nov. 3
" Thursday AM Breezes Southerly Cloudy PM variable Easterly with snow and drift. Early this morning sent off all the men mentioned the 4th Ult. Mr Thomas Surgeon excepted to Severn, accompanied by the two packet Indians. - men as before."

Nov. 4
" Friday Strong gales Northerly cloudy with drifting snow towards evening more clear. Too bad weather to work out variously employed in House."

Nov. 5
" Saturday Wind more Westerly blowing strong with thick drift and cloudy. Two men came from each of the Hunting Tents near home. as did the wooders for provisions. rest as before."

Nov. 6
" Sunday AM fresh gales Northerly clear PM cloudy with drifting snow. Divine Service. The Hunters of yesterday went to their respective tents. killed a young buck deer."

Nov. 7
" Monday Variable breezes Northerly part clear part cloudy moderate weather. One man came from Flambro' hunting tent with a few partridges and rabbits. - Rest of men as last week."

Nov. 8
" Tuesday Fresh breezes Southerly cloudy and moderate.
The Hunter of yesterday went to his tent. rest as before"

Nov. 9
" Wednesday Light breezes Easterly cloudy with snow.
Mens employ as before."

Nov. 10
" Thursday Wind as yesterday AM Clear PM cloudy Men as before."

Nov. 11
" Friday Wind weather and mens employ the same."

Nov. 12
" Saturday Wind and weather as yesterday
Had beacons set acrofs the River. one man came from each of the hunting tents near the Factory with a few fish and Rabbits. The Hunters at french Creek tell me they found the Churchill boat carried by the high tides into the woods on the opposite shore. Rest as before."

Nov. 13
" Sunday Light breezes Northerly and cloudy. - Divine Service. The Hunters of yesterday went to their respective tents."

Nov. 14
" Monday Wind and weather the same. - One man came from Flambro' Hunting Tent with 20 rabbits. he acquaints me that Nelson river is froze over abreast the seal islands, therefore I hope to get the Churchill packet men off very soon, had watering and victualling hole cut in the river ice and salt provisions put therein. Rest of men employed nearly as last week."

Nov. 15
" Tuesday Wind the same. weather the same
Sent four men acrofs the river to afsist the Hunters to get the Churchill boat drifted on shore on logs. They found part of the old Launch and steps in the woods near her. The Hunter of yesterday went to his tent."

Nov. 16
" Wednesday Part Clear, part Cloudy with wind Northerly.
Men as before."

Nov. 17
" Thursday Cloudy with snow. Breezes NE
Men as before."

Nov. 18
" Friday Breezes Westerly part Clear part Cloudy with light snow. Men as before. Prepared letters for Churchill."

Nov. 19
" Saturday Wind and weather nearly as yesterday
One man came from each of the Hunting Tents bordering on this River with a few fish and Rabbits. Had victualling hole opened. - rest as before.
'Till this day the men have been served out English salt provisions for three months. except one day pr Week which I have been enabled to serve them of fresh provisions since the Winter set in - the large number of Men at this Factory consume a vast quantity of meal, and I am fearful our stock will run low before the seasons come round to supply us with country game. - Began to serve them out one day pr week salt Venison freshened in the Victualling hole. - I was fearful if it had been distributed before the men would not have taken that care to refresh it, which might have been attended with bad consequences to them."

Nov. 20
" Sunday Westerly Breezes Clear and fine. The Hunters of yesterday went to their respective tents. Closed the packet for Churchill."

Nov. 21
" Monday Wind and weather as yesterday
Thomas Hounsom the Shipwright in the Sick list. One man came from Flambro Hunting tent with eight rabbits and twenty three partridges. - Tradesmen at their respective occupations. - Labourers with large sled hauling fire wood to the House. Hunters as before.
This morning sent off the two Churchill packet Indians with letters &c for that settlement. - Their detention at this place so long was occaisioned by the ice driving in the North River so early, and which could not be crofsed before it set fast."

Nov. 22
" Tuesday Wind and weather nearly the same - The Hunter of yesterday went to his tent - rest of Men nearly as last week."

Nov. 23
" Wednesday Wind Weather and mens employ the same."

Nov. 24
" Thursday Wind and weather the same and Mens employ as on Monday."

Nov. 25
" Friday Wind weather and men the same. - In the Evening Southerly breezes."

Nov. 26
" Saturday Easterly breezes Cloudy and severe in the Evening Snow. One man came from each of the hunting tents on this river. Rest as before."

Nov. 27
" Sunday Light breezes NE part Clear part Cloudy Divine Service. - The Hunters of yesterday went to their respective tents."

Nov. 28
" Monday Fine clear weather with light southerly Breezes. Men nearly as last week. - One Man came from Flambro Hunting Tent with 25 partridges and eight rabbits."

Nov. 29
" Tuesday Breezes NE Cloudy and Cold with thick Rime. The Hunter of Yesterday went to his tent. - Mr Thomas came from the eight mile island Hunting tent with his beding. - Rest of Men nearly as last week."

Nov. 30
" Wednesday Part calm part light airs NE with snow Cloudy and moderately mild. - Mens employ as before."

Dec. 1 1791
" Thursday Part clear part cloudy light breezes SSW.
Mens employ nearly the same."

Dec. 2
" Friday Westerly breezes Clear. Five men opening Victualling hole. Rest nearly as before."

Dec. 3
" Saturday Wind and Weather the same - One Man came from each of the Hunting tents near the Factory with a few fish and rabbits. Rest of men as before."

Dec. 4
" Sunday Part clear part Cloudy wind as yesterday. Divine Service. - The Hunters of yesterday went to their respective tents."

Dec. 5
" Monday Cloudy with SSW breezes. Men employed nearly as last week. Two men came from Flambro hunting tent with Eighteen Rabbits and twenty Partridges."

Dec. 6
" Tuesday Wind variable NW cloudy AM afternoon Clear.
The Hunters of yesterday went to their tent. Rest as before."

Dec. 7
" Wednesday AM Wind and weather as yesterday PM wind Southerly and mild. Men as before."

Dec. 8
" Thursday Fresh breezes S by E with drifting snow. Cloudy
Men nearly as before."

Dec. 9
" Friday Light breezes S by E Clear.
Five men opening victualling hole. Rest as before. Mr Sutherland came to the Factory says no Game is to be seen on the Islands upwards."

Dec. 10
" Saturday Fresh Gales Northerly. Cloudy with thick drifting Snow. One man came from French and Ten Shilling Creek Hunting tents with a few Rabbets and Partridges not sufficient for half days allowance procured by all the Hunters this week."

Dec. 11
" Sunday Breezes WNW Clear.
The hunters of Yesterday went to their respective tents as did Mr Sutherland to his. - Divine Service."

Dec. 12
" Monday AM Fresh breezes Southerly clear and fine. PM strong gales from the same quarter cloudy. One man came from Flambro hunting tent as did one from the islands up the River - Tradesmen and Labourers as last week."

Dec. 13
" Tuesday SE breezes part clear part cloudy. - The Hunters of yesterday went to their respective tents. Rest as before."

Dec. 14
" Wednesday Wind Easterly cloudy with snow
Men nearly as before."

Dec. 15
" Thursday Wind weather and mens employ nearly the same."

Dec. 16
" Friday Northerly breezes Cloudy and severe.
Men as before."

Dec. 17
" Saturday Breezes Westerly clear and intensely severe.
One man came from French Creek and one from Ten Shilling Creek Hunting tents with a few Partridges. Rest as before."

Dec. 18
" Sunday Wind and weather the same. Divine Service."

Dec. 19
" Monday Breezes NW Cloudy
One man came from Flambro Hunting tent with no more game than just sufficient in Allowance for one man seven days. Rest of men nearly employed as last week."

Dec. 20
" Tuesday Breezes W by S Clear weather.
The Hunter of yesterday went to his tent and one man came from Mr Sutherlands with only 18 Partridges. The wooders came home with their beding for the Xmas holidays. rest as before."

Dec. 21
" Wednesday Variable stiff breezes very thick drift. Cloudy and cold. Labourers cutting up wood for the holidays. rest as before."

Dec. 22
" Thursday Breezes NE Cloudy
Mr Sutherland and family came from the eight mile island hunting tent. Rest as before."

Dec. 23
" Friday AM stiff breezes SW Cloudy and cold. PM strong Gales and thick drift. The Hunters came from Ten Shilling Creek with their Tent and beding. as did those from Flambro House. Only thirty Partridges this week from three Hunting Tents. rest of Men as before."

Dec. 24
" Saturday AM light Airs SW very mild cloudy weather and thawing. PM variable winds more cold.
The Hunters came from French Creek with their beding for the Christmas holidays. - I have had fourteen people out at four different hunting tents all this winter, yet with all their exertions have not been able to procure scarcely sufficient provisions for their own support, Game of all kinds are so very scarce. Had not my Officers at the House been more succefsful we should have been badly off for fresh provisions for the men, as the late arrival of the ship and early setting in of winter prevented the Hunters reaching their usual winter quarters. The Rivers so soon freezing over very few fish could be procured.
In order to supply the Men with full allowance I have been obliged to serve out four and sometimes five days English provisions, one day salt venison and one day Fish or Partridges pr week. but when only four days english provision were served them - then? two days salt venison and one days fresh provisions pr week. - To prevent any bad effect from the Men's eating such a quantity of salt Meat I offered them in lieu of one days salt venison to give two quarts of Scotch Barley and one quart of Molafses pr Mefs (or 4 Men) which they one and all thankfully accepted. by persuing this method makes it equal to two days pr week fresh provisions - these with Vinegar being distributed every other week I hope to keep off that dreadful malady felt at this factory for years past. besides by the plan adopted I shall be enabled to make the english meat hold out 'till the seasons become more favourable for the supply of country provisons. - as well as keeping a reserve for the Men when they arrive from inland. Had Tools collected and stowed away and workshops cleaned out for the Holidays."

Dec. 25
" Sunday Variable light airs, so very mild as to thaw the Snow from the Leads of the dwelling house, which is a singular Phenomenon at this season of the year at the Factory. This morning four indian men and two women with an Englishman arrived with Letters from Severn."

Dec. 26
" Monday Moderate breezes variable Cloudy with light snow very mild.
Men at their holiday Diversions. Tooked? out articles of Trading Goods for Mr Ballanden."

Dec. 27
" Tuesday Light airs Southerly mild clear and pleasant."

Dec. 28
" Wednesday Wind Weaterly. Clear.
Sorting and packing Goods for Mr Ballanden."

Dec. 29
" Thursday Northerly Breezes. Cloudy and drizzling snow.
Officers employed as yesterday."

Dec. 30
" Friday Northerly breezes cloudy. Sent twenty four men with Large Sled to haul home the Churchill Boat. Myself and Officers finished packing Goods for Severn."

Dec. 31
" Saturday Stiff breezes Northerly with thick drift, cold."

Jan. 1 1792
" Sunday Breezes W by S Cloudy drifting snow and cold.
Divine Service."

Jan. 2
" Monday Breezes SSW Clear and moderate.
Men finished their holiday Diversions when the old usual annual custom was observed.
Prepared Letters for Severn and the Bay settlements and closed the Packets."

Jan. 3
" Tuesday Cloudy cold weather with stiff breezes Westerly
Sent four men to tent and hunt at Stoney River, - also four to French Creek 'till Nelson River is froze over which is not fast at present below Flambro' House. - Sent Eighteen men to the wooding tent and eight to cut down woods beyond New York. - The tradesmen at their respective occupations. - Served out provisions to the Englishmen and Indians going to Severn. three men in the Sick list. rest variously employed."

Jan. 4
" Wednesday Strong gales Westerly. Cloudy and cold with thick drift.
Too bad weather for packet men to set off. Five Tradesmen at work for trade and inland. Rest variously engaged in House."

Jan. 5
" Thursday Fresh Breezes Westerly part Clear part Cloudy and cold.
Sent two Men to the eight mile hunting tent. Severn packet men set off with such Trading Goods and Stores Mr Ballanden wrote for, which I have supplied from York store in order that he may receive the Severn cargo compleat which will prevent that settlement experiencing any want in case the Sloop should be detained here any future season. but the articles Mr Ballanden wrote for are so trivial that there is no fear of the trade suffering for want of Goods as he tells me he has a good stock of all kinds in his warehouse.
I have also sent James Wooldridge? and John Moad to that settlement which will enable Mr Ballanden to get his necefsary work done during the absence of the Sailors. and I permitted Mr Thomas the Elder Surgeon to visit Severn. Rest of Men as before."

Jan. 6
" Friday Fresh breezes Northerly part Clear part Cloudy very cold. men as before."

Jan. 7
" Saturday Westerly breezes clear. One man came from French Creek hunting tent with only twenty Partridges, Rest as before. I am sorry to remark that symptoms of the scurvy is making its appearance among the most inactive men. began making wort from the Efsence of Malt for their drinking."

Jan. 8
" Sunday AM fresh breezes S by W intensely severe PM wind variable S b E more moderate. - During last night Brandy Rum and Quicksilver froze solid in Phyals placed in open air. the latter became malleable.
The Hunter of yesterday went to his Tent and one came from the eight mile island with only Sixteen partridges."

Jan. 9
" Monday Early AM Cloudy and Severe afterwards clear and moderate with Breezes SE.
Mr Sutherland and Family with the hunter of Yesterday went to the eight mile island hunting tent - Two men came from Stoney Rivers with only forty partridges - they brought John Moad to the Factory. - he is one of the Men who set off for Severn on Thursday last. he tells me he is unable to bear the cold or undergo the fatigues of the Journey.
Rest of men nearly as last week."

Jan. 10
" Tuesday Fresh Breezes W by S Clear and Severe.
Quicksilver froze solid last night in the open air. The Hunters of yesterday went to their Tent. rest as before."

Jan. 11
" Wednesday Westerly breezes the morning very thick rime afterwards Hazy very severe towards Evening wind variable Men as before."

Jan. 12
" Thursday Light breezes Easterly Cloudy with snow moderately mild. Men as before."

Jan. 13
" Friday AM Wind and Weather the same. PM wind veered Northerly very mild.
Had victualling hole opened. Mr Sutherland came to the factory says Partridges and all kinds of Game are so very scarce that he has not been able since himself and Tentmates absence to kill sufficient for their own support. - Your Honours will please to understand that all the Hunters sent out to Tent are only served out five days provisions pr week. - two days they have to provide for themselves. - Since this year commenced Partridges are very remarkably scarce. I have had seven Men out with Guns for three days past from the House whom travelled over a large tract of Ground from morning 'till Evening when the produce of all their hunting is only four Birds. rest of men as before."

Jan. 14
" Saturday Moderate Breezes Northerly. Cloudy.
Mr Sutherland went to his tent. - one man came from French Creek and one from Stoney Rivers Hunting Tents with only ninety partridges. rest as before."

Jan. 15
" Sunday Wind and weather as before. Divine Service.
The Hunters of yesterday went to their respective Tents. gave orders for those at French Creek to bring home their Tent and beding to the Factory."

Jan. 16
" Monday Moderate breezes SW part clear part cloudy.
The Hunters of French Creek came home with their Tent and beding and prepared things in readinefs to set off tomorrow. - Three men in Sick list. rest as last week."

Jan. 17
" Tuesday Wind Southerly clear and moderate. Sent William Smith Craft Master with three men to Tent and Hunt acrofs Nelson River. rest as before."

Jan. 18
" Wednesday Northerly Breezes thick rime and hazy "

Jan. 19
" Thursday Fresh Breezes Northerly cloudy towards evening drifting snow and severe cold. Men nearly as before. began clearing ground for foundation of Magazine."

Jan. 20
" Friday Breezes NW thick rime early. afterwards clear and severe. Had victualling hole opened. rest of Men as before."

Jan. 21
" Saturday Wind and weather as yesterday
Two men came from Stony Rivers hunting tent as did one Man from Mr Sutherland's only Eighty Birds killed this week by all the hunters.
I always find my feelings hurt whenever I have had occaision to complain of the misconduct of any man under my command, but when I find the harmony of the settlement is likely to be disturbed, justice obliges me to sacrifice those feelings to my duty. - - Henry Gaines, I am sorry to say has shewn a very refractory disposition ever since he has been in this Country and often times has been very disorderly. but as I judged his behaviour proceeded from the bad advice of James Hall who went home last year, I past it over hoping that in time he would see his folly. - This day his insolence and abusive language exceeded all bounds. - He insisted on the few Englishmen having the picking of provisions and the orkney servants to take their leavings as was practised on board ship. - He refuses to obey the orders of any officer and threatens not to do any more work till he is served out full allowance all English provisions - and made use of very bitter imprecations that he would not suffer any Salt Venison to be served out in future. - As it has been ever usual the most plentiful season at this place to serve out two or three days pr week Salt Venison. - the same has been pursued this winter, but as our stock is not equal to what it has been some years I only served them out one and sometimes two days pr week as mentioned the 24th Ult. - And I can vouch that it is the best I have yet seen in the warehouse since my residency and of which I have some drefsed daily for my own Table. - And I am well convinced the provisions served out is wholesome at the same time good allowance for any moderate person, as many of the men have at this time several days allowance by them before hand. Indeed was I to comply with the demands of only two men (for Gaines has one Charles Kitson who joins him) it would occaision the greatest confusion among the rest of the servants, and there is no knowing to what lengths they might carry their insolence."

Jan. 22
" Sunday AM very severe weather with NW breezes PM more moderate with wind SSW.
The Hunter from the eight mile island went to his tent."

Jan. 23
" Monday Wind and weather as yesterday afternoon
The Eastern Hunters went to their tent and as they have orders to remove to Ship River appointed two Men to accompany them to bring home the game they kill and occaisionally hunt at Stony Rivers. - The rest of Men nearly as last week except Henry Gaines and Charles Kitson Carpenters. - The former positively refuses to do any more duty unlefs his demands are complied with as mentioned on Saturday. Mr Thomas the Surgeon, David Thompson and myself did all in our power by intreaties to convince him of the danger he was involving himself but it has not any the least effect. he says he will not obey the orders of any person, and declared publicly, that if the majority of the men were of his mind he would soon see what the warehouses contained, on being told his exprefsions conveyed a mutinous disposition he said he did not care for any one in this country and he was determined to persevere in his resolution.
Charles Kitson appears sorry for his misconduct and promises to go to his duty to morrow."

Jan. 24
" Tuesday Wind as before Clear and fine. - Men as Yesterday. - Henry Gaines quite unruly, and I am fearful will stop the workmen in their duty at New York, as he is one of those who has an apartment there. Ordered him to remove down to this Factory but he says he will not, neither shall any person oblige him for he is determined to do as he pleases. - In consequence I sent for Mr Sutherland to come to the Factory to morrow, when I shall take the opinion of all my officers the proper steps to pursue for the safety of the Factory - as I have every reason to think it is Henry Gaines intention to stir up a mutiny as he was one of the principal actors two years ago when an insurrection was on foot at which time myself and officers were advised by Mr Thomas Wiegan to be on out guard as a plan was laid to take some of us off. - Indeed was I to insert the whole of his behaviour and the many threatening speeches he has made use off to intimidate me. - it would be a recital of Language very improper for a journal. I always considered the prevention of Crimes preferable to the punishment of them. - and whenever I found a Man guilty of Offences I ever endeavoured to convince of his errors by gentle admonitions, this had the desired effect on the greater part but a few more daring imputed? my good nature in so soon forgiving injuries to Timidity, and it having been carried to such Lengths by Henry Gaines obliges me to pursue more rigorous methods to put a stop to such conduct in future.
It appears to me and officers that the crisis is arrived which is to determine whether the Chief and Officers are to rule the men. - or the men to have the sole command over their superiors. for some of the most ignorant are led to believe that the Honourable Committee themselves have no power to stop their wages be their conduct ever so bad and make use of exprefsions to that effect.
They all seem to regulate their conduct by Umfreville's publication which has been dispersed among them by what means I know not and they bid defiance to all order, as every one are determined to be unanimous in their refusal of salted Country provisions in future."

Jan 25
" Wednesday Wind and weather and Mens employ the same.
When Henry Gaines Carpenter heard that I had sent for Mr Sutherland and was coming home to day and found it was my determination to proceed against him with rigour. - his vaunted resolution left him and he went to work this morning - notwithstanding this so soon as Mr Sutherland came from his Tent. I sent for him (Henry Gaines) when he made proper concefsions to myself and officers for his misconduct and promised to be obedient to the orders he should receive in future and attentive to his duty.
It was not our intention to make use of any other severity towards him, only confining him to his cabbin and striking him off the books and serve him out half allowance 'till the arrival of the ship. - But when we come seriously to deliberate that the confinement of a Tradesman at this time would impede the progrefs of our buildings on hand. it was judged prudent to give him a severe reprimand, and pointed out to him the enormity of his offence and the consequence's that would follow in case a prosecution was carried on against him. - he appeared sensibly affected and he promised that his future conduct should atone for the past, therefore the only punishement inflicted is the stoppage of his allowance of Brandy 'till further pleasure. At the same time he was informed that minutes were taken of his unruly behaviour which would accompany him to England pr next Ship, unlefs he was more attentive and industrious in his work which he also promised. Sorry am I to remark I do not think he has earned ? pr day since the departure of the Ship last October. for here are two or three men at six pounds pr Year has done more than double the work in the Carpenters hanch? than he has in that time and the work nearly as well executed. In case it should be found necefsry to send Henry Gaines to England next year I sincerely hope your honours will inflict the penalties contained in the Contract for in case no examples are made there is no knowing to what lengths the threats of Men of such disorderly dispositions might be carried."

Jan. 26
" Thursday Wind variable weather and mens employ as before. - Mr Sutherland went to his Tent in order to bring home his things to morrow."

Jan. 27
" Friday Light airs and gentle breezes variable Southerly Clear and fine. Had watering hole opened. Two men came from the hunting Tent acrofs Nelson River with only Sixty partridges. they say birds are equally scarce there as on this island. - Mr Sutherland and tent-mates came to the Factory with their beding."

Jan. 28
" Saturday Wind and weather the same and Mens employ as before. The Nelson river hunters went to their Tent and two Men came from the Eastward with Sixty Partridges."

Jan. 29
" Sunday Wind and weather nearly the same.
Divine Service. The Hunters from the Eastward went to their Tent, to whom I joined one of those who came from Mr Sutherland's Tent, the other John Jennings refused to go."

Jan. 30
" Monday Wind and weather nearly the same and Mens employ as last week, except three in sick list. John Jennings set of early this morning to join the hunters at the Eastward Tents."

Jan. 31
" Tuesday Breezes Westerly Cloudy towards evening drifting and cold. Men as before."

Feb. 1 1792
" Wednesday Fresh breezes Northerly severe cold and thick drift. Men variously employed in house."

Feb. 2
" Thursday Breezes variously from South to West Clear and severe. - three afsisting sorting Trading Goods. for inland. rest as on Monday."

Feb. 3
" Friday Fresh breezes W by N cloudy and Cold.
Had victualling hole opened, men nearly as before.
Two hunters came from Nelson river tent with seventy Partridges."

Feb. 4
" Saturday Breezes Easterly part Clear part Cloudy
The hunters of yesterday went to their Tent, and two came from the Eastward with one hundred and thirty Partridges. rest as before."

Feb. 5
" Sunday Cloudy and drift with N by W breezes.
Divine Service.
In the evening two Natives arrived from Pathepow a nippee with a few furrs. say they have been twenty days on their journey during which they did not see so many partridges. They also inform me that the winter set in so early upwards that many Swans and other water fowl were froze in the Lakes and they found many of the former not fledged, they likewise say that the snow is remarkably deep."

Feb. 6
" Monday Breezes Northerly Cloudy. Sent the two Hunters of Saturday to their Tent. rest of men nearly as last week."

Feb.7
" Tuesday AM light airs variable PM Calm clear and mild. Men as before. The Natives of Sunday traded."

Feb. 8
" Wednesday Westerly breezes part Clear part Cloudy. Men nearly as before. The Natives of Sunday went away."

Feb. 10
" Friday Wind the same Clear and fine. Men as before. Had victualling hole opened. Two Men came from Nelson River hunting Tent with only 60 partridges."

Feb. 11
" Saturday Light airs SW Clear and fine. The Hunters of yesterday went to their Tent and two Men came from the Eastward Tent with one hundred and forty Partridges rest as before.
Symptoms of the Scurvy having made its appearance among several of the men which alarms the rest, many of whom requested to be served out Grain instead of Salt Provisions and delivered to the Steward Thirty Five pieces of English meat to be exchanged for Barley, Oatmeal &c. The meat so exchanged will be taken on account in Provision book as received this Month."

Feb, 12
" Sunday Light airs SW Clear and fine. Divine Service. Hunters of yesterday went to their Tent."

Feb. 13
" Monday AM Wind and weather as Yesterday PM fresh Gales S b E Cloudy with snow.
Mens employ nearly as last week, except nine in the Surgeons list, part of whom I am sorry to remark, begin to be disabled in their Legs by the Scurvy as to prevent their walking. We now feel the great want of the Sour Krout which is mentioned in invoice but not landed at this place. Our being also deprived of 2/4? Stockfish intended for us is an irreparable lofs these scarce times (for particulars I refer your honours to the Journal 7th October). Had the whole been delivered, the quantity would enable me to have served out several days of fresh provisions to the Men in the fall. instead of which they lived on salt Meat for a long time. which proving fine and good they laid no restraint on their appetites but devoured their whole allowance without being freshened, which generally happens for a month before the river ice sets fast (after the victualling holes are cut in the Ice and salted provisions is made fresh for the Mens drefsing before it is served out to them) The great scarcity of Country Game and our being deprived of the only fresh Victuals from England, has occaisioned that dreadful malady the Scurvy to visit us again this Season."

Feb. 14
" Tuesday AM light Breezes S b E part clear part cloudy PM variable Northerly very mild.
To prevent the Scurvy from getting ahead and to keep the Men in exercise, had all those at this Factory employed with large sled hauling Firewood. - The Smith afsisting me casting copper and Brafs nails for Magazine. rest as before."

Feb. 15
" Wednesday AM Breezes Northerly and variable Wly Cloudy PM more Clear.
All hands as on Monday except Smith who is afsisting me casting Copper and Brafs Nails. - also plates of the same metal for Magazine. Two men came from the Wooders tent ill with the Scurvy."

Feb. 16
" Thursday Northerly Breezes Cloudy All hands as on Tuesday."

Feb. 17
" Friday Wind as before Clear and fine. Mens employ as on Wednesday. Two men came from Nelson River hunting Tent with Sixty Partridges as did two from the Eastward Tents with one hundred and forty."

Feb. 18
" Saturday Westerly breezes Clear and Cold. The Hunters of yesterday went to their respective tents. Rest of men and Sick as before. Many of the men at the woods have symptoms of the Scurvy which obliges me to serve out Grains in lieu of salt provisions. - part of those at the House are so very decrepid in their Limbs they can scarcely crawl about with the afsistance of Crutches. - Appointed a person to attend on the sick men and had regular meals of fresh Victuals drefsed for them."

Feb. 19
" Sunday Light airs Southerly Clear and fine. Mild pleasant weather. Divine Service."

Feb. 20
" Monday Northerly Breezes with drifting snow part Clear part Cloudy. Had victualling hole opened. Taylors at work for Trade. Smith and Cooper at work for inland. fifteen men at the woods, twelve at hunting tents nine disabled by the Scurvy. rest variously engaged."

Feb. 21
" Tuesday Stiff Breezes Northerly Cloudy and thick drift severe cold. All able hands at this Factory with large Sled hauling firewood. - rest and sick as before."

Feb. 22
" Wednesday Breezes Wly Clear and Cold.
All hands as on Monday."

Feb. 23
" Thursday Wind weather and Mens employ as on Monday."

Feb. 24
" Friday Fresh Gales Northerly severe cold cloudy and drifting. men as on Tuesday. Two Hunters came from Nelson river tent with Sixty partridges."

Feb. 25
" Saturday Wind and weather nearly the same tho' more thick. Men as before."

Feb. 26
" Sunday Clear with light breezes moderately mild. Divine Service.
The Hunters of Friday went to their Tent and two came from the Eastward Tent with one hundred and seventy partridges. They acquaint me that they found a waistcoat in a bluff of woods about 18 Miles distant from this Factory, in the pocket of which was a knife with a name cut in the Handle, the same was in the pofsefsion of John Smith one of the unfortunate men who was lost from the ship the 19th September last. It is evident from the distance the Cloaths are found from where the Boat stranded that the poor men got on shore safe and wandered in search of the Factory, and it is to be lamented they perished thro' want and the inclemency of the weather. I have given orders to the men to make strict search around to examine for the bodies and bury them. - The very thought of fellow creatures dying such miserable deaths greatly affect me."

Feb. 27
" Monday Strong gales Northerly AM Cloudy PM more clear very severe cold. no one could venture without doors all hands variously employed in house."

Feb. 28
" Tuesday AM Breezes W b S Clear and Sharp PM wind variable.
The Hunters of Sunday went to their Tents. All able hands at the Factory with large Sled hawling Firewood. rest of Men as last week. It gives me pleasure to mention that the sick men are on the recovery. four of whom are on duty."

Feb. 29
" Wednesday Northerly Breezes severe cold part Clear part Cloudy. Mens employ nearly as last week."

Mar. 1 1792
" Thursday Wly Breezes Clear and sharp. Men as before."

Mar. 2
" Friday SW Breezes Cloudy. Mens employ as last Tuesday. Two men came from Nelson River hunting Tent with seventy Partridges."

Mar. 3
" Saturday Variable light airs part clear part cloudy
Men variously employed. - The hunters of yesterday went to their tent, and two came from the Eastward with one hundred and fifty partridges."

Mar. 4
" Sunday Light Airs variable and mild part Clear part Cloudy Divine Service. The Hunters of yesterday went to their Tents."

Mar. 5
" Monday Fresh breezes Southerly Cloudy and mild.
All hands engaged as last Tuesday"

Mar. 6
" Tuesday Light Airs Southerly Clear mild and thawing.
Had Warehouses cleaned out. Mens employ nearly as before."

Mar. 7
" Wednesday Part Clear part Cloudy with variable light airs. Mild and thawing.
Began foundation for Magazine. Mens employ nearly as before.
In the Evening two Natives arrived tolerably loaded with Furrs and a little green Venison."

Mart. 8
" Thursday Part Clear part Cloudy AM mild PM cold with variable gusts of wind. Men as before."

Mar. 9
" Friday Cloudy with fresh breezes Northerly Afternoon very thick weather with light snow.
Two men came from Nelson River Tent with Eighty Partridges. rest nearly as before. The Natives of Wednesday Traded."

Mar. 10
" Saturday Northerly breezes cloudy. Afternoon snow.
The Hunters of yesterday went to their Tent. and two came from the Eastward with one hundred and fifty Partridges. All hands at home as on Monday."

Mar. 11
" Sunday Fresh Gales Northerly with a continual fall of snow very thick and Cloudy."

Mar. 12
" Monday AM Light airs clear mild and thawing PM Cloudy and Cold.
The Smith, Cooper and two Men at work for inland. Taylor for Trade, rest of Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Sixteen Men at the woods, twelve at hunting tents, six bad with the Scurvy. Others variously employed clearing away Snow from the works which is at this time many feet deep. The Hunters of Saturday went to their Tents. The Indians of last Wednesday went away."

Mar. 13
" Tuesday Light Airs Northerly in the afternoon gusts of wind from the same quarter. Cloudy. Men nearly as before."

Mar. 14
" Wednesday Light Airs Northerly part Clear part Cloudy and mild. Men nearly as before except the Smith who is employed casting and making Copper and Brafs nails for Magazine."

Mar. 15
" Thursday Wind as before. Cloudy and Mild.
Tradesmen Hunters and wooders and Sick as before. Labourers at the Factory afsisting taking down part of the Cabbins and removing windows and Boards up to New York."

Mar. 16
" Friday Wind weather and Mens employ the same.
Two Hunters came from Nelson River Tent with Sixty Partridges."

Mar. 17
" Saturday Breezes Northerly Cloudy Cold and light drift. The Hunters of Yesterday went to their Tent. All the wooders came home with their Tent and beding and removed their things up to New York as did many others of the men."

Mar. 18
" Sunday wind and weather as before.
This morning three young men. Natives. arrived tolerably loaded with furrs which they traded. - One man with three dogs and sleds came from the Eastward Tents with one hundred and fifty Partridges."

Mar. 19
" Monday Early AM fine slear weather with moderate breezes NE afterwards a heavy gale of wind from the same quarter with thick drfiting snow and as cold as ever I felt the severity of weather.
The Hunter went away early as did the Natives of Yesterday. Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Sick as before. all the Labourers variously employed at New York."

Mar. 20
" Tuesday Stiff Breezes NW part Clear part Cloudy very severe and cold. Men as before."

Mar. 21
" Wednesday Clear cold weather. Men as before.
I find the Carpenters are so very inattentive to their work while I am absent from them, obliged me this day to take up my Residence wholly at New York. I have fitted out a small temporary apartment from part of one of the warehouses. I left Mr Sutherland in charge at the Factory where the Officers and a few Men still reside. on account of the Severn Cargo and as all the Natives who visit me in Summer will trade there, I shall occaisionally attend. Had I not taken these steps to reside on the spot near the workmen I do not think the building would be finished for some years with the present set of Tradesmen, for never was a place worse than this is, especially for those in the building line."

Mar. 22
" Thursday Clear weather with Southerly Breezes. Men as before."

Mar. 23
" Friday wind and weather and Mens employ the same. Two Hunters came from the Eastward and two from Nelson River Tents, the produce of their Hunt this week is two hundred and five Partridges."

Mar. 24
" Saturday Heavy gusts and Gales of wind Westerly with drifting Snow. Too bad weather for Hunters to set off Men variously employed."

Mar. 25
" Sunday Variable winds part clear part cloudy. The latter part of the day Cloudy with light snow.
The Hunters of Friday last went to their respective Tents. About noon Mr Thomas the elder Surgeon, George Foreman, John Sutherland, Thomas Huntley, Beakie Goudie and Robert Gowland arrived from Severn accompanied by two Natives, one of whom is the son of an Englishman came purposely to enter into your Honours Service to go Inland. - He has done the same duty as any other of your honours servants at Severn for some years past and acted in the Capacity of Trader and Steward to Mr Ballanden ever since he has been Master at that settlement. he has the Character of a steady hardworking man and I have not a doubt, from the account I hear of him but that he will turn out a very useful servant to the Honourable Company."

Mar. 26
" Monday Southerly breezes fine clear and thawing.
Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Seven in the Sick list, twelve at hunting tents. rest variously employed wheeling snow before the upper hoist at New York &c.
As pr Agreement entered Howey Sabbiston the young man mentioned yesterday on our books - I hope your honours will pardon me for taking this Liberty without permifsion my view of doing it is, as encouragement to other Lads sons of Englishmen, as they will ever be found useful at this settlement as hunters as well as handy in Canoes in conveying Goods to the Inland settlements."

Mar. 27
" Tuesday Breezes NW Cloudy and Cold.
Tradesmen as before. Labourers with large sled removing Timber and boards of Cabbins from the old Factory to new York."

Mar. 28
" Wednesday Gales of wind NW Cloudy cold and thick drift.
Tradesmen as before. Labourers grinding Oatmeal and preparing things for inland packages."

Mar. 29
" Thursday light Breezes Easterly cloudy with snow.
Men nearly as on Tuesday"

Mar. 30
" Friday Gentle Breezes S by E part clear part cloudy with light showers of rain.
Two men came from Nelson river hunting tent with fifty five Partridges. Rest as before."

Mar. 31
" Saturday Wind weather and mens employ nearly the same.
The Hunters of Yesterday went to their Tent and two came from the Eastward with one hundred and fifty Partridges."

Apr. 1 1792
" Sunday Clear pleasant weather with southerly breezes.
The Hunters of Yesterday went to their Tent."

Apr. 2
" Monday Wind and weather as before. much water on the River ice. Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Labourers variously employed clearing snow &c. Severn Sailors making shot bags and sinnet for inland. God be praised all the Men who were afflicted with the Scurvy are on duty. should there be any return of that disorder we shall be poorly off as all our Vegetables and Cranberries are expended with all the bark in the Surgeon's pofsefsion."

Apr. 3
" Tuesday Wind as before cloudy with showers of Rain.
The Taylors removed their things and beding to New York. Rest as before."

Apr. 4
" Wednesday Northerly Gales with Rain Hail Sleet and Snow alternately very cold. Too bad weather to work out. Men variously employed in House."

Apr. 5
" Thursday Strong gales Northerly with thick drift and severe cold. Snow around again very deep the places which took all the Labourers nearly seven days to clear out is filled and the pafsages to our Warehouses nearly blocked up. Tradesmen &c as before. rest variously engaged."

Apr. 6
" Friday Variable breezes from North to West Clear and cold 'till the afternoon when it became moderate.
No Work Done. Divine Service performed for the first Time publicly at new York."

Apr. 7
" Saturday Strong Gales Northerly. Cloudy thick drift and severe cold.
Early this morning sent ten Men down with large sled for old Canvas left on the sloops last fall. also for the sails in order to dry them. Two Men came from the Eastward Tents with only one hundred Partridges. Rest variously engaged."

Apr. 8
" Sunday Breezes N b W Clear and Cold. The Hunters of Yesterday went to their Tents. Mr Taylor accompanied by two Indians arrived with a Packet from Churchill."

Apr. 9
" Monday Strong gales Northerly cloudy with thick drift severe cold. Men nearly as last week."

Apr. 10
" Tuesday Fresh breezes Northerly Clear and Severe. Men nearly as before."

Apr. 11
" Wednesday Wind weather and Mens employ the same."

Apr. 12
" Thursday Nearly the same. began laying the Foundation of the South and last Flanker."

Apr. 13
' Friday Wind the same. weather clear and very severe.
The North River Hunters came home with their Tent and beding. rest as before."

Apr. 14
" Saturday Wind the same part clear part cloudy more moderate. Two men came from the Eastward Hunting Tents with only ninety Partridges. Gave the Men this day to take up Goods from Warehouses for the last time this Season and to write Letters to their Friends at Churchill."

Apr. 15
" Sunday wind and weather the same. Divine service."

Apr. 16
" Monday Wind and weather as before. Tradesmen at their respective occupations, part of the Labourers employed hauling unwrought Timber and Stockades from the old to new Factory. Others removing Goods from Launch House to Warehouses. In the afternoon had things in readinefs and loaded large Sled for Goose Tent at the Fourteens River. Prepared Letters and closed Packet for Churchill.
This Evening James Smith, Taylor, pafsing one of the men cuting wood when the helve broke and hatchet fell on him - which nearly severed his Thumb from his right hand."

Apr. 17
" Tuesday Wind the same clear and severe cold.
Sent part of the Labourers to haul large sled loaded with proper necefsaries for the Goose Tent at Fourteens River. Rest as yesterday."

Apr. 18
" Wdenesday Wind the same weather more moderate.
Five men afsisting David Thompson and self packing Trading Goods for inland. Labourers diging drain from Cellars to River, rest nearly as before.
Mr Taylor with the Churchill Packet Indians set off on their return. - Three officers from the old Factory accompanied them acrofs Nelson River to hunt for Partridges."

Apr. 19
" Thursday Wind weather and Mens employ as before."

Apr. 20
" Friday Wind and weather the same. All the Hunters came from the Eastward having left one Tent at the Fourteens. Four men ? shrouds for Flag staff, rest nearly as before."

Apr. 21
" Saturday Part Clear part Cloudy moderately mild with light breezes variable Northerly.
Men as before. Had Carpenters benches &c cleared from Mens Flanker which is compleatly finished with commodious Cabbins and bed places sufficient to contain 66 Men comfortably each separately lodged."

Apr. 22
" Sunday Light airs Northerly clear and mild. Divine Service.
Charles Kitson this Evening in a fit of intoxication wounded John Mellam Armourer and Thomas Huntley Sailor each of whom he stabbed with a Chisel. The Surgeons were sent for who sewed up the wound, but am in hopes neither of them are in danger. Confined Charles Kitson to his Cabbin until this unhappy affair is examined into."

Apr. 23
" Monday Fine Clear and Calm
Men exercising themselves with small Arms at the Old Factory. Afterwards gave them a treat as a House warming at New York to which place they went in procefsion with Music playing &c, usual Ceremonies observed."

Apr. 24
" Tuesday Wind and weather the same. Six Men preparing things in readinefs for the Goose Tent."

Apr. 25
" Wednesday Gentle breezes S b E Clear fine and thawing. much water on the river ice. Sent six Men to tent and kill Geese at the fourteens River. Tradesmen at their respective occupations. The Packers of inland Goods as before. Five Men in the surgeons list. rest variously employed. Had all the officers from the old Factory and examined into the unfortunate affair on Sunday when it was proved that one of the wounded Men had been attempting to force Charles Kitson to drink contrary to his then inclination, and when in a mad fit of intoxication he gave the men their wounds. In short it appeared that one of those who received the wounds was the greatest aggrefsor. - In consequence Charles Kitson was released from confinement and punished by having all allowance of Liquor stopped 'till the arrival of the Ship, which is to him a punishment the severest that could be inflicted his propensity for drinking is so great. I was under the necefsity before Xmas to allowance him to a stated quantity of Spiritous Liquors to take upon his own account from the warehouse. Yet he has found means to be supplied by others of the men to whom he has paid an advanced price for it . and very seldom it has been but that he takes two days in the week to drinking only - He tells me it is against his Religion to work on a Monday."

Apr. 26
" Thursday Wind weather and Mens employ the same.
Geese seen to day much water along shore."

Apr. 27
" AM Wind and weather the same. Noon a heavy shower of rain sultry with Thunder - PM stiff Breezes N by W severe cold and freezing."

Apr. 28
" Saturday Wind as Yesterday. Afternoon clear and Severe. Mens employ as before."

Apr. 29
" Sunday Variable light airs clear mild and thawing. Divine Service."

Apr. 30
" Monday Wind and weather nearly the same. very warm. Armourer Cooper Smith and Taylor at work for inland. Six men packing goods for the upper Settlements. Four in the Sick list. Fourteen digging a Drain at New York. All the rest taking down buildings at old york and hauling stuff from thence on large sled."

May 1 1792
" Tuesday Wind weather and Mens employ the same.
The river ice upwards gave way and forced a pafsage to the South shore. French Creek ice broke up, much water along shore. Gulls and other aquatick Fowl made their appearance."

May. 2
" Wednesday Fresh Breezes Northerly. Cloudy with snow, very cold.
Early part of the day Mens employ as before when the weather became too bad to work out. all hands variously employed within doors."

May 3
" Thursdsay Fresh Gales Northerly cloudy cold freezing weather, snow very deep? on? the Ground River ice as before.
Men collecting timber and stuff together at Old York, clearing snow from buildings. Tradesmen, packers and sick as before. finished packing trading goods for the inland settlements sufficient to load 60 Canoes, and as Mr Tomison desired to have his goods packed separate from Swan and Nelson River settlements. I observed the same plan as followed last year."

May 4
" Friday Wind and Weather the same. The south channel (of this river) ice broke up. The water appears to have a pafsage to sea as that along this shore is much lower than yesterday. Twelve men with large sled hauling stuff from old York. H. Gaines and Chas Kitson under the surgeons care, rest nearly as on Tuesday except packers whom I sent down to Sloops and shallop to fix proper moorings."

May 5
" Saturday Light airs clear and fine. three men making a suit of sails for Long boat. Too much water along shore to work the large sled. men employed on this duty yesterday collecting wood around new plantation. Rest and sick as before. Symptoms of the Scurvy begin again to appear among the men."

May 6
" Sunday Southerly breezes fine and clear. Divine Service. Mefs Sutherland and Thomas the elder set off to tent and kill Geese in the Marsh."

May 7
" Monday AM fresh Gales Northerly cloudy with snow PM thick drift severe cold and freezing.
Early part of day mens employ as last week, latter part picking Oakum &c sick as before."

May 8
" Tuesday AM Wind and weather nearly as Yesterday morning. PM clear and cold. Men and sick nearly as before. It is somewhat singular at this season of the Year after the river ice had given way, to see the whole again froze over, and no current running but under the new froze ice."

May 9
" Wednesday Wind and weather nearly the same middle of day moderate. Severn Sailors making a suit of sails for the Sloop in lieu of those shaken to pieces last fall. The new Canvas sent out last year has been found very useful for such purposes and the old Canvas answers equally well for covering around inland bundles. Rest of men and sick as before."

May 10
" Thursday Wind weather and mens employ nearly as before. Blefs god Mr Sutherland sent sufficient Geese for all hands to taste, one each mefs."

May 11
" Friday Wind West, so cold no one able to withstand its severity to work without doors, variously employed in House."

May 12
" Saturday Light breezes W b S and variable Westerly Clear and severe, towards Evening thick snow with Northerly breezes. Mens employ nearly as the former part of this week. Mr Sutherland came to the Factory and returned again to his tent. No Geese flying."

May 13
" Sunday Breezes N b W very cold with a continual fall of snow. Divine Service."

May 14
" Monday Thick drift with Gales of wind Northerly very cold. The weather so bad no person could work out. indeed most of the labouring men are again laid up with that dreadful disorder the Scurvy and other complaints which renders them uncapable of duty. Mefs Sutherland and Thomas came from the Marsh, says no Game of any kind is to be seen. Tradesmen variously employed in House, as are the others picking Oakum."

May 15
" Tuesday Early AM light airs Southerly afterwards wind veered again into its old Quarter N b W and variable NE part clear part cloudy.
Tradesmen at their respective occupations. five making sails and doing other work belonging to Crafts as are the two shipwrights mending boats. Six at work for inland. Fourteen bad with the Scurvy unable to work. rest variously employed - Mefs Sutherland and Thomas went to their Tent."

May 16
" Wednesday Early AM light breezes NW fresh Breezes afterwards from the same quarter PM breezes NE towards evening Hail. soon after a heavy fall of snow with SE breezes Cloudy. a few Geese flying. Men nearly as before."

May 17
" Thursday The Snow continued falling till 10 O'Clock this morning, afterwards it became clear and wind veered into its old quarter N b W very cold. All hands variously engaged in House 'till 10 O'Clock. afterwards Labourers wheeling snow from around the works which is as deep as it has been any time this season. Sent three men to Mr Sutherlands Tent who returned with 17 Geese which were distributed among the men immediately."

May 18
" Friday Wind as yesterday afternoon. severe clear freezing weather. Men employed nearly as before. - I am sorry to add I find the working hands greatly diminish. those men who before escaped the Scurvy are daily falling bad with that dreadful disorder. I have very few men able to do duty."

May 19
" Saturday Early AM light airs Southerly afterwards Easterly Clear and pleasant. In the Evening Northerly breezes with drifting snow. Men and Sick as before."

May 20
" Sunday Wind and Weather as yesterday
Much water along shore and from the numerous flights of water fowl which pafsed the Factory this Evening expect a clear river in a few days."

May 21
" Monday Severe cold with Northerly breezes part clear part cloudy.
Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Six at work for Inland. Sixteen in the scurvy list. part of whom are so bad with that disorder as to occaision their Teeth to drop from their Gums. Sent five men to Mefs Sutherland and Thomas who returned with 52 Geese. rest variously employed."

May 22
" Tuesday Early part cold with wind as before afterwards variable Southerly Clear and fine PM stiff breezes NNW severe cold with hail rain and Cloudy weather.
Mens employ and sick nearly as yesterday. 72 Geese from Mefs Sutherland and Thomas."

May 23
" Wednesday AM Breezes Northerly Cloudy and severe PM clear Two added to the Sick List rest employed as before. This afternoon the Ice in motion and appears to go quietly down but from the small quantity of Ice in the channel it is evident that a stoppage upwards must have taken place."

May 24
" Thursday AM Cloudy with Northerly breezes severe cold at times hail. This channel of the River clear of Ice so low as the old battery Bar. Men and Sick nearly as before. 75 Geese from Mefs Sutherland and Thomas."

May 25
" Friday AM wind as before very severe with hail Noon clear and moderate PM Cloudy with much heavy rain. Sent four in a Boat to examine the Banks of River and look for rafts of firewood left at Rainbow Gut last fall. on their return say there has been one of the heartiest deluges upwards they ever saw. that part of the Rafts of firewood are rose upwards of 30 feet perpendicular in the banks edge and near the spot they were made, others of them are again floated so low as the seven mile Island, so that I am in hopes very little wood will be lost. Rest of men and sick as before. Saw a smoke at French Creek and two men standing near it. as the opposite channel is blocked up with Ice there is no probability of getting near them. fired two Guns as a Signal - and the men returned to their Tent."

May 26
" Saturday Much snow fell last night severe frost this morning afterwards hail and sleet PM more clear and moderate.
Sent five men in a boat to examine the south channel but were obliged to return it is so blocked up with Ice. rest variously employed nearly as before. 63 Geese from Mefs Sutherland and Thomas."

May 27
" Sunday AM light Airs variable Clear and fine PM Cloudy with stiff breezes N b E severe cold
Took a boat with six men to Ten shilling Creek and fixed a Tent in readinefs for the Sick whom I intend to send there so soon as the weather becomes more moderate. A great fresh of water in the Creek which prevents the fish from entering."

May 28
" Monday AM Stiff breezes N b E severe cold with Hail and Snow - Sent three men in a boat to French Creek to walk from thence to the Fourteens River Goose Tent. also three men to the Goose Tent on this Island the latter returned with 55 Geese - The severity of the weather and the Scurvy has disabled all the labouring Men at this place. I could only muster 9 working people this morning. The sick are now more numerous than any time this season. part are so dangerously bad with the Scurvy and having no Medicine left proper for that disorder makes it more distrefsing. By the Surgeons advice I distribute Wine daily to a great number of them which cheers their drooping? spirits and am in hopes when the weather becomes more warm and get them to Ten Shilling Creek they will speedily recover strength especially should fish become numerous."

May 29
" Tuesday Northerly breezes severe cold freezing weather, part clear part cloudy with hail and snow.
The men I sent yesterday to the fourteens river returned with very favourable accounts of the succefs of the Hunters there. Sent 11 Men to repair the Deer Hedge and set snares. rest as before."

May 30
" Wednesday Wind and Weather the same. Sent 13 Men to the fourteens Goose Tent with necefsaries who returned with 90 Geese. - and Mefs Sutherland and Thomas sent the same number from their Tent. - Rest and Sick as before."

May 31
" Thursday Wind variable AM Cloudy PM Clear.
Men and sick nearly as the former part of the week. In the Evening 4 Canoes of Home Guards arrived removed to Old Factory."

June 1 1792
" Friday Clear pleasant weather with variable light breezes SSE. This may be called the first summer day this season. Geese are taking their flight to the Northward and frogs made their appearance. Mens employ as before."

June 2
" Saturday Wind Weather and Mens employ the same. Sick as before.
Mefs Sutherland & Thomas came home with their Tent and bedding. The Natives of Thursday paid their debt and traded and prepared things in readinefs to set off to kill Geese in Marsh to morrow.
In the afternoon took six men in boat to set Nets and angle for fish at Ten Shilling Creek."

June 3
" Sunday AM Wind and Weather the same. PM Cloudy. NE breezes with heavy showers of rain. very cold.
Returned from Ten shilling Creek with 50 lbs of Trout. - Indians went to the Marsh to tent and kill Geese. Saw a smoke at French Creek - sent four men in Boat who returned with a few Geese from the Fourteens River Hunters."

June 4
" Monday AM part Clear part Cloudy with variable Breezes moderately mild PM raw cold Cloudy with fresh Breezes Northerly.
Sent 9 Men in a Boat to the Fourteens River. on their return brought 60 Geese and the flesh of one Deer. Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Blefs God the Sick are on the recovery and all but nine men on duty and variously engaged.
In the afternoon Mr Cook accompanied by two Natives arrived in a small Canoe from Chatham House - He tells me his Trade is upwards of 2600 MB and would have been nearly double had he but had Goods to trade with the Natives. He also informs me the Canadian Traders are very troublesome and make use of the meanest artifices to draw Indians to trade with them - And as the Men in that employ are numerous they intimidate the few with Mr Cook and have even carried their encroachment to such lengths as to build a House so near to that of Mr Cook as to block up the door way and stop Natives from trading with him. - and from whom they have taken Beaver Coats belonging to the Honble Company.
Mr Cook also informs me that if he has a sufficient number of Men and a proportioned quantity of Trading Goods with him this Summer he has not a doubt but the Canadian Traders will be obliged to relinquish the part they at present occupy up Nelson River - And without a vigourous push is made this Season on our part it will be impofsible to do any thing as the Canadian Traders are coming in with upwards of 20 Men which number are to be stationed near Chatham House purposely to prevent Natives from entering your Honours Settlement - All the Trade Mr Cook collected has been from others to whom he was obliged to go some days journey from the House and the whole from Indians who are large Debtors in York books. - On his attempting to stop their debts many immediately set off with their furrs to the Canadians who tell them they will forgive them the debt they owe the Honble Co. provided they will always trade with them. - which the Indians who are credulously knavish? believe."

June 5
" Tuesday AM light breezes Northerly severe frost early in the morning PM Calm clear and fine. Evening light breezes Southerly. Sent George Foreman, James Sutherland Severn Shipwright and one Sailor to sleep on board the Sloop and do the necefsary repairs on the deck 'till she is afloat, at present Ice surrounds her and all the Craft below the Battery. - Fixed up the Flag staff at New York. sick as before. In the afternoon three Canoes of Natives arrived with furrs intrusted to their care by Mr Cook. - and notwithstanding they are large debtors in York Factory books they have not a skin to pay it or Trade."

June 6
" Wednesday Southerly breezes fine and Clear. Sent 5 Men up the River to examine Deer Hedge and raft home firewood also three men in a boat to overhaul nets and angle for fish and 6 in a Boat to the Fourteens River who returned with 61 Geese. Sick as before. The Indians came from the Marsh with 100 Geese no luck at Nets."

June 7
" Thursday AM Cloudy with a thick fog fresh breezes Northerly at times heavy showers of Rain. PM more Clear moderate and fine. Sent Men in a Boat acrofs for Hunters from the Fourteens River - returned with Tent Bedding &c Geese killed by them 858. of which are salted and left in Casks 562. Five men spinning tracking lines - for the expiditing of which I had a machine made that enables the Men to make them equal those sent from England and by which they twist 6 in a day, each 45 Fathoms long. Tradesmen and Sick as before, rest at work in a Drain began last Summer - and as it is dug down thro' a solid body of frozen Earth 15 feet deep makes it a very laborious work.
Eleven Canoes of Home guards arrived loaded with furrs and two came acrofs the Island for a supply of Ammunition for their friends who are waiting at Flamborough House to kill Deer."

June 8
" Friday AM Cloudy weather with mizzling rain Easterly breezes PM part Clear part Cloudy.
Five men packing Goods for Mr Cook. rest variously employed on necefsary duties and sick as before."

June 9
" Saturday Thick fog early part of day afterwards Clear with variable light airs. sent a boat with all the sick to ten shilling Creek rest of Men as before.
Two Natives set off to their friends at Flambro and ten Canoes of half Bungees arrived."

June 10
" Sunday AM severe cold PM Clear and fine early part of day gusts of wind latter part light airs variable. engaged with Natives the whole day."

June 11
" Monday First part of the day wind variable all round the Compafs, latter light breezes Southerly part Clear part Cloudy. The men came from Ten shilling creek with a few fish. Eighteen men preparing to set off to raft home Timber. Mefs Thomas Cook and Thompson set off in a Canoe up the River to look for Deer. rest of Men nearly as last week. prepared Letters and closed the Packet for Severn. Received a Deer from Natives and killed one near the Factory."

June 12
" Tuesday Breezes southerly clear. Musketoes made their appearance. Eight Canoes of Home Guards arrived as did 6 of Play green Indians. Sent Eighteen men to raft home Timber cut down beyond Pennycutaway River. Received this day the flesh of seven Deer."

June 13
" Wednesday Clear and fine with Southerly breezes. Musketoes numerous and troublesome. Engaged with Indians. Mens employ as before. Received the flesh of 8 Deer."

June 14
" Thursday AM Wind and Weather the same. PM fresh breezes Northerly which drove off our troublesome Guests the Musketoes. Eighteen Canoes of Home Guards arrived well loaded with furs and seven Canoes of Bungees set off. All hands at home variously engaged with Natives and salting Venison. Received 12 Deer from Natives and 8 sent by the Officers."

June 15
" Friday Northerly Breezes cloudy with thick fog raw cold. Men nearly as before. The Officers of Monday returned having left a raft of Deer up the River being unable to bring them down with their small Canoe, they also left a supply with men at the woods."

June 16
" Saturday Light airs variable clear and fine.
Sent four men for the Deer left by Officers up the River Yesterday. Engaged with Natives the whole day, have no lefs than 6 different tribes now on the plantation. Sent all hands to Deer hedge &c for Deer killed by Officers and Natives in the plains near the house. returned in the Evening with the flesh of 18 Deer and 2 Fawns."

June 17
" Sunday Strong gales southerly Clear - Six canoes of half Bungee Natives arrived very poorly gooded having traded all their winter Furs with the Canadian Traders at Poplar River. One Canoe also of Bungees who left the Factory on Thursday returned with Women and Children belonging to one of that Tribe who was shot by his own brother near pennycutaway River yesterday."

June 18
" Monday AM fresh Breezes Southerly very sultry PM Northerly Breezes clear and moderate. - Nine men salting Venison. four afsisting Severn Sailors to get off the Sloop. Two mending Deer Hedge. Eighteen at the Woods. - Tradesmen at work for Trade and inland. Sick as before. rest engaged with Natives, sorting and packing Goods with Mr Cook, drying skins &c.
Having at this time so many Tribes of Natives who arrived at several different times in nearly 60 Canoes makes it very expensive, an expence which cannot be avoided."

June 19
" Tuesday Fresh Breezes Northerly Clear.
The Wooders came home with 12 Rafts of Timber and Stockades. Sent off an Indian with Packet to Severn. the reason of his being detained so long after the close of the Packet was occaisioned by the arrival of Indians alluded to in Public Letter to Mr Ballanden - but as they will not as yet give me any answer when they intend to set off for Severn Settlement cannot say any thing in that head in my Letters.
All hands engaged with Natives. - Obliged to send down empty pipes to raise the Sloop - Six Canoes of Bungees and three of Home guards natives went away. Late in the Evening the Severn Indian that went with the Packet returned having lamed himself as to render him unable to proceed on his Journey."

June 20
" Wednesday Gusts of Wind and variable Gales the whole day with heavy rain thunder and Lightning dark cloudy weather. All hands engaged in House for Inland filling Brandy Rundlets, slinging bundles &c Capenters making Medicine Cases. Sloop came up."

June 21
" Thursday Flying showers part Clear part Cloudy with Thunder at a distance. Westerly Breezes."

June 22
" Friday Cloudy with flying showers. Got salt Casks on board Long boat in order to send to the fourteens tomorrow where I intend erecting a Tent to salt Venison. Men employed parbuckling Timber up the Bank."

June 23
" Saturday Part Clear part Cloudy Wind the same towards Evening southerly. Mens employ nearly the same drying skins &c obliged to defer sending Long boat to the Fourteens on account of all the Sailors being wanted on board the Severn Sloop."

June 24
" Sunday Variable Breezes from NW to WSW part Clear part Cloudy. Musketoes very numerous & troublesome."

June 25
" Monday Part Clear part Cloudy with showers of Rain. Sent six men in Longboat for Geese left at the Fourteens &c&c filled Powder Rundlets for Inland and packed Goods for the North River Settlement. Began packing furrs and stoned the Slip at New York.
Men returned in the Evening from the Fourteens say they saw Natives there who told them they had not seen a Deer since they left the Factory."

June 26
" Tuesday Part Clear part Cloudy with showers of rain. Finished filling Brandy Kegs for inland, had Launch House cleared and prepared Warehouses to receive inland furrs. others as before. Two Canoes of Natives arrived from acrofs the River."

June 27
" Wednesday AM variable Breezes Cloudy PM heavy rain towards Evening clear. Men nearly as before. James Spence Jun. and three Englishmen arrived from Chatham House in two large Canoes accompanied by many Indians in 21 small Canoes with furrs belonging to Mr Cook. John Allen? is left up in charge of the House as the Canadians threaten to burn it down during the mens absence."

June 28
" Thursday Much rain fell during last night day fine and Clear with numerous Musketoes.
Sent fourteen men to raft home firewood from Rainbow Island. Cleared Warehouses to receive furs from Inland. Engaged packing furrs others as before."

June 29
" Friday Fresh breezes variable part Clear part Cloudy.
Early this Morning Mr Isham accompanied by 10 Men arrived in 4 large Canoes. he acquaints me his Trade this Year is upwards of 5000 MB but that as he was not permitted to bring down any Natives from Swan River he was under the necefsity to leave upwards of 2000 MB behind. he was compelled to make two young men steersmen who had only gone one Journey inland. That he left Swan River early purposely to make two trips this Summer but was long detained by Ice in the great Lake. About noon Mr Tomison 57? Men and many Indians arrived in 24 large and four small Canoes with a fine Cargo of furrs. - It rather surprizes me that notwithstanding so many men have been added to the complement inland annually there has been no difference in the number of Canoes brought down from Cumberland House for five seasons past. - Mr Tomison brought the melancholy intelligence that Archibald Copeland was unfortunately drowned in his pasfage up last season and that Isaac Batt had been killed by an Indian during his absence from the upper settlement last year."

June 30
" Saturday Variable light airs Cloudy with showers of Rain. Musketoes troublesome. Engaged on inland duties."

July 1 1792
" Sunday AM Clear PM Cloudy with Rain. Light breezes variable."

July 2
" Monday Clear fine weather with light airs Southly. Musketoes numerous and troublesome.
Mr Isham and men packing furrs. all hands fully employed on inland businefs. In the afternoon took down the Beaver Prefs and removed it to New York where all Mr Tomisons furrs are landed. Had old temporary Launch fixed up for loading Severn Sloop. - Sorted out trading Goods for natives to take to Chatham House. - Three canoes of natives arrived with a little venison which was distributed among the men from the upper settlements."

July 3
" Tuesday Wind as before clear and fine. Musketoes numerous and so troublesome as to stop businefs. Fixed up the Beaver Prefs. also Prefs for Packing of Casks. - The Indians who arrived last night tell me they found the dead body of a man in a European drefs at the Fourteens River. Sent 4 men in a boat to examine the Corpse and bury it, on their return say they found the body entire and which they knew to be the remains of Christopher Nicholson one of the unfortunate men lost from the ship last season. All the men returned from Rain bow Gut with ten rafts of firewood. Sent several home guard natives up the river to look for Deer."

July 4
" Wednesday Wind weather and musketoes much the same. Had wood carried up Bank. began packing furrs from inland. nineteen canoes of natives went away all of whom took trading Goods for the North River settlement. All factory tradesmen engaged on inland duties."

July 5
" Thursday Wind weather and musketoes as before. - Evening thunder and lightning with heavy rain.
Two canoes of natives set off with trading Goods for Cumberland house. Had Severn Sloop hauled along Launch and part of Cargo put on board her. had Churchill sloop in dock to repair. - Packing inland furrs and engaged with natives. finished carrying wood up bank."

July 6
" Friday Wind and Weather variable musketoes so troublesom as almost to stop businefs. Had a raft of firewood brought from acrofs the river and carried up bank. Severn sloop took in remainder of her cargo for that settlement. My duty compels me to remark here that I found among the severn cargo greater part of the articles lost from York last ship time which thro' hurry on relanding the Cargo last fall escaped my notice. - As the blame of these transactions might be sadled on my old deceased acquaintance Mr Moore, I shall do him but justice to acquit him. - The articles alluded to I judge part to be taken from the Launch house at New York on Sunday 25th September while ill the Officers with Mr Moore were engaged writing to their friends and the Keys were intrusted to those on board Sloop, when the advantage was taken to embezzle the things in question, which had been before taken off in our check book as landed. others had never been sent on shore but were discovered by Mr Sutherland on board sloop yesterday morning before any of the Cargo was taken from out our Warehouse. Four canoes of natives arrived from Cumberland with Furrs belonging to Mr Tomison intrusted to them."

July 7
" Saturday Wind weather and numerous flys as before. Packing furrs. Many of the Natives who sett off the 4th instant returned to drink with their friends."

July 8
" Sunday Heavy rain in the night. Gusts of wind variable rain towards evening. engaged the whole day on inland businefs."

July 9
" Monday Rain early in the morning afterwards wind weather and flies as on Saturday. Packing furrs from Inland. Ordered all pafsengers on board Severn Sloop whose Master has orders to prepare for sailing tomorrow. sold the effects belonging to the late Mr Moore. - 2 Musqua rat river natives arrived and those belonging to the North river went away."

July 10
" Tuesday A sharp frost this morning which stopt for a time the Career of the Musketoes afterwards fine clear and pleasant weather with SW breezes.
Delivered George Foreman as master of the Sloop sailing orders and just before he weighed anchor Chas. Kitson the man engaged for Severn last year refused doing the duty and work of a sailor on board. George Foreman says he cannot venture to sea without I supply him with another man in his room. sent Thomas Clouston to supply the room of Chas Kitson on board and ordered the latter on shore. - I am sorry I have occaision to mention this persons name so often in my Journal, suffice it to say he has caused great uneasinefs at this factory since he has been here. Sloop sailed about noon but brought too soon after, abreast the point of Marsh. Her Crew consists of
George Foreman acting Master
James Sutherland Mate
Robert Gowland Shipwright.
Thomas Huntley,
Beakie Goudie,
William Golding Sailors.
Thomas Clouston in lieu of Charles Kitson.
John Moad and Nich. Spence Jun. as pafsengers. The latter I spared Mr Ballenden on account of his having a large number of small Rundlets annually spoilt for want of a Cooper to repair them. Nich Spence is a tolerable Cooper and a much better workman as a Carpenter than the one engaged as House Carpenter for Severn last year. - Also Toney an Indian Mr Ballanden sent pr spring packet to afsist at our Goose hunt goes as pafsenger on board the Sloop for Severn. Finished packing inland furrs. four Canoes of North River Indians arrived with a few furrs. Sent several home guard natives up the river to look for Deer."

July 11
" Wednesday Very heavy Gales of wind NE with a continual heavy rain which laid tents &c under water.
packing tobacco &c for inland and doing other duty in warehouses."

July 12
" Thursday Moderate breezes Ely and clear PM variable
This morning the Severn Sloop was under way but obliged to bring too soon after. - In the Evening tide sailed, pray God send a safe and speedy pafsage to Severn.
Your honors will please to observe I compleated Severn Cargo and made up nearly the whole of the deficiency (taken from it and sent to Mr Ballanden in the winter) from York store. for particulars I refer your honors to Country Correspondence. Had Bundles slung for inland. four men spinning tracking lines for canoes, others variously employed on inland duties. Robert Wilson this day had the misfortune to dislocate his right arm. Four canoes of North river and one of Musqua rat river Indians went away. the former took bundles of trading Goods for Mr Cook. All the home guard natives returned to the factory alomst starving."

July 13
" Friday Wind and weather as yesterday. Busily employed on inland duties. Called a council to engage servants whose contracts expire this season. The whole as usual stood out for advance of wages and only 6 out of 30 agreed to your honours terms. Viz. John Halcro and James Murray Bowsmen, William Sabeston John Harper John Johnson and Gilbert Laughton Steersmen, others promise to give an answer in a few days. - part make a very extravagant demand for wages and behave very insolent and the rest intends for England pr next ship.
Mr Tomison tells me almost the whole of the Steersmen intends next season leaving your honors employ. I remarked to him the only way to put a stop to the combination entered into among the men, would be to put forward the most active young hands as steersmen which would prevent any detriment arising on the old steersmen leaving the service. - as I saw the intention of every one wishing to spin out their time. - so that all the Contracts might expire in one year. - which was evident from the proposals made by many this day to the Council that it was in my opinion far better to suffer several of the old hands to go this year than incur the displeasure of the Honble Co. by advancing their wages contrary to orders as it would be the means of bringing many young hands forward who must supply the room of steersmen next season."

July 14
" Saturday Much rain last night wind and weather during this day as before. - Tooked? out Guns for inland and Goods and Stores for Swan river. Received the flesh of 2 Deer from home guard natives which was distributed among the men from inland."

July 15
" Sunday Wind and weather nearly the same. Musketoes very numerous and troublesome. to prevent the Natives that accompanied Mr Tomison and men in large Canoes from being detained here, and in order that a large quantity of Trading Goods might be taken inland, purchased three canoes of my home guard Indians for them, fitted them out, and 6 canoes set off for Cumberland with trading Goods. Examined all young hands and those chosen for inland taken from Factory Duty. Late in the Evening some home guards arrived with two canoes loaded with Venison.

July 16
" Monday Variable light airs. Flies of all kinds very numerous and so troublesome as almost to stop businefs. Sorting out Guns, packing hats and kettles for inland. all those men who refuse your honors terms put on factory duty. Served out men such things as they want from the Warehouse."

July 17
" Tuesday Wind nearly the same very sultry. Cloudy with heavy rain in the afternoon. Flies very troublesome.
Mefs Turnor, Rofs & Peter Fidler with their small party arrived from a journey of discovery after an absence of two years. It gives me much concern to find the person intrusted with the supplies intended for Mr Turnor on his setting out from Cumberland House never delivered them to him and that he left that Settlement without a Grain of Barley, Oatmeal or other provisions and only 31? lbs of Flour."

July 18
" Wednesday Wind variable part Clear part Cloudy very sultry and Musketoes troublesome. Fixed the Men for Canoes and served out provisions to part of them. I find Swan River and North River Settlements are likely to share the same fate and neglect as last year without a vigourous and spirited exertion on my part and brother Officers interfere?"

July 19
" Thursday Much rain last night. Cloudy with a wet damp fog. Breezes N b E. Engaged nearly as before."

July 20
" Friday Cloudy and Cold with Breezes NW Laid out Cargoes. finally fixed Men and Canoes and preparing for leaving the Factory."

July 21
" Saturday Clear and Calm. Engaged on inland businefs. Mr Tomison having had a strap? taken from a box which was broke open stoped allowance from all the men till the things stolen are returned."

July 22
" Sunday Wind and weather as before. Engaged as before. The strap stolen yesterday was restored or at least brought to and placed in the same spot it was taken from as it was done during the night. the thief remains yet undiscovered. Two Northern Chipeway Natives arrived to beg a little ammunition &c had no furrs say they lately came from Churchill."

July 23
" Monday Early part of day fine and pleasant with NE breezes latter part heavy rain with thunder and lightning - Mefs Thomas and Bird accompanied by 21 Englishmen and five natives set off this morning tide in seven large Canoes for the upper settlements. - Blefs God I have great reason to rejoice that my family is so much lefsened. Eighteen men preparing to leave the factory to morrow."

July 24
" Tuesday Part Clear part Cloudy with light showers of rain. Wind variable NE. This morning Tide Eighteen englishmen and six natives set off in 6 large Canoes for the upper Settlements. Many others preparing to leave the Factory tomorrow. The two Northern Indians went away."

July 25
" Wednesday Light airs SW fine and pleasant weather. Mr Tomison with 16 Men with several Indians set off in five large and one small Canoe for the Upper settlements - Furnished Peter Fidler who set off this day with proper instruments for the making observations beyond Manchester House. Mr Tomison tells me he intends to send people to the Stoney [Rocky?] Mountains soon after his arrival at the Upper Settlements and Peter Fidler is to accompany them - Drawn out account Current of all the Canadian servants in your honours employ inland they having given notice to Mr Tomison their intentions of leaving him next spring. Delivered to Mr Tomison their account up to this day also blank drafts to be filled up inland. The old hands left down will be inserted after Mr Ishams Canoes leave the factory his people are preparing things in readinefs. All the young hands taken from the Factory inland this season will be inserted when North River Canoes set off."

July 26
" Thursday Much rain last night part clear part cloudy with light airs Southerly. Musketoes very numerous and troublesome. Mr Isham and party preparing their Canoes and getting things in readinefs for leaving the factory tomorrow. - Also Mefs Sutherland and Malcolm Rofs preparing theirs to set off early on a journey of discovery up this River. Mustered all able hands except those going to Swan River in order to fix Canoes for going up Nelson River with Brandy and Trading Goods. Find all those whose Contracts are near expiring this year positively refuse to go. on its being represented to them the consequences that would attend their refusal many of them were willing to take up Goods and return at Ship time but James Linklater behaved in a very insolent manner and bid defiance not only to officers? in this Country but the Company themselves."

July 27
" Friday Light airs and gentle breezes variable fine pleasant weather. Early this morning sent off Mefs Sutherland and Rofs, two Englishmen and an Indian Guide to examine the communications of Lakes & Rivers and find if pofsible a track whereby Hill River may be avoided in going up with Trading Goods to the Upper settlements, it being not only the most difficult but most dangerous ? not only for men but Canoes found between York Factory and Manchester House and the Men farther declare that in going up that river there is more fatigue than the length of the remaining part of the Journey.
About noon Mr Isham accompanied by 18 Men in 5 large Canoes and Indians in two small ones set off with trading Goods for Swan River. As Mr Ishams Canoes are much larger than those from the upper Settlements he offered all the young hands refused by Mr Tomison, one in each of his large Canoes extra. this I readily agreed to provided they took Bundles of trading Goods in proportion and each of his Canoes had two more pieces in their Cargo than any other taken to Cumberland. I sent two of my home guard natives up with Mr Isham to afsist in bringing down furrs next season so he is not permitted to bring any Indians from that quarter to the Factory*. I propose for him to have two large luggage Canoes the same as Canadians use that will contain double the Quantity of goods of any Canoe in this service and bring them with him next spring for I am confident such Canoes would be found of more real service than those now in use which are nearly one third larger than they were six years ago yet they leave the Factory with the same cargoes they did when the Canoes where much smaller, yet are much stronger manned than they were then. Old hands left down at the factory whose times expire this year and will not agree to your honors terms are Edward Wishart, William Flett Sen., Andrew Corrigal and George Rofs Steersmen, James Johnson, Halcro Smith and James Linklater Bowsmen, David Knarston, David Allan and William Duncan Labourers. - In the afternoon when I found I could not get sufficient number of Canoes manned for the North River called a council of all the Officers at this place, consisting of Mefs Jos. Colen, T Thomas Sen., Philip Turnor and Wm Cook and as it appeared that Jas Linklater was a principal ringleader in setting the men to refuse going that Journey James Linklater was called in and ordered to prepare himself with others his fellow servants to convey goods up Nelson River when he immediately said that he would be damn'd if he did go and positively refused and made use of other bitter oaths and otherwise behaved in a very insolent manner. when informed he would be struck from duty and forfeit the penalties contained in his Contract he bid defiance to us and the company and dared them to do their worst. - As this man has not only at this place but Inland for many years past shewn a very refractory disposition and has been always at the head of cabals, it was proper and necefsary to take notice of him, by inflicting some severe punishment and we thought him a fit object as an example to other men We are unanimously of opinion that he should be struck from the list of Sevants and put on half allowance of provisions from this day and the steward has orders not to serve him out more during his stay.
Your honours will please to understand this same James Linklater was principal Leader in persuading? the rest of men to leave Mr Isham's goods on the long swampy Carrying place near Swan River as mentioned in Mr Ishams Journal of the ? August last. This same man also caused Mr Walker much unhappinefs at the south Branch last year by positively refusing several times duty. Mr Walker has mentioned him by name in his journal of the 20th April last as being a disorderly person. indeed there has not been a year past but that he has been in a journal of complaints against him since his landing at this place in the year 1787.
Your honours will receive Extract minutes of Council of this day signed by each officer present. we should not have gone to such lengths had we not been fully convinced that underhand steps (we judge from the conversation that pafsed?) are persuing? to injure this service and we are apprehensive unlefs vigourious measures are pursued against James Linklater (whose conduct has been notoriously bad) nothing can be carried forward in future in this Country as to conduct businefs as it ought for the benefit of our employers and it also appears to us the men has received encouragement to insult the Officers at this place as they pay little attention to our orders having received instructions how to act from others. - an instance we had of it by their Treatment of Mr Isham last year. The punishment inflicted on Jas Linklater has had already this effect, all those who before refused to go up the North River are preparing their Canoes for the Journey. Prepared Letters and closed the Packet from Churchill. Four Canoes of home guards arrived say no kind of Game is to be got, as did two Canoes of Bungees with a few summer skins. the latter traded and went away."
[In the margin "* Mr Isham had orders to bring as many Natives as would accompany him next Season to the factory &c. I hope your honors will not deem? me? refractory for disobeying the orders of my superiors."]

July 28
" Saturday Wind and weather nearly the same.
Sent off two Indians with a packet to Churchill. One Native and family set off up Nelson River and took two Bundles of Trading Goods for Mr Cook. Engaged the whole day arranging inland papers serving out Goods and Provisions for the Men going up Nelson River. Had Canoes repaired and served out Shoes? &c."

July 29
" Sunday AM pleasant breezes Wly Clear and fine PM much thunder and lightning sultry with heavy rain. Musketoes numerous and troublesome
Two Canoes of Natives arrived from Nelson River tell me two bundles of trading Goods are left at the Fishing wier two days Journey from this place.
Received the flesh of 5 deer and 150 Tongues."

July 30
" Monday Northerly Breezes with a continual heavy rain 'till 4 PM when it cleared up. Had Warehouses overhauled, sorted furrs and tying up Martin Skins."

July 31
" Tuesday A severe frost Ice thick, Wind Northerly afterwards Calm and Sultry with flying showers.
About noon this day Mr Turnor accompanied by six Englishmen and two Indians in two large Canoes set off with a Cargo of Brandy and Powder for Chatham House. Mr Turnor accompanied them to take a survey of Nelson River to examine whether it is practicable to get Boats of Burthen and Distance up. - He say it is long since he made his last survey but that from the little knowledge he has of it it is a much easier and safer? River than that of Albany tho this is uncertain, I thought it an object of importance and worthy the tryal, as Mr Philip Turnor would have lived at this place and been almost inactive 'till ship time I embraced the opportunity (as he offered his Service) to send him with men who are necefsitated to be back by the time the Ship leaves this Harbour in order to go to England.
Engaged packing furrs and got Beacons ready to set tomorrow. Four natives strangers came to beg provisions, say themselves and families are nearly starving and that they lately came from Churchill."

Aug. 1 1792
" Wednesday Light airs and gentle Breezes Clear and fine. Packing furrs had inner Beacon set and began taking stock. Musketoes very troublesome."

Aug. 2
" Thursday Sultry with light airs. Early this morning James Spence Jun. accompanied by nine men set off with Trading Goods &c in three large Canoes for Chatham house. Mr Cook remains at the Factory till ship time in order to take some young hands with him inland. Young hands taken from the factory inland are
Mr Thomas Thomas the younger Surgeon, George Gunn, John Simpson?, James Hutchinson, William Isbester, Magnus Irvin, Mag. Yorston, Mag. Chambers, Robert Garroch Jun., James Gaddy Jun., Thomas Stainger, George Robinson, Adam Linklater, Howee Sabbiston, John Mowatt and Nicholas Leith (the two latter were left down last year Ill). All the above accompanied Mefs Tomison and Isham. - Those taken up the North River are James Hounston?, Hugh Hourston, Charles Hay and Laughton Leith. Robert Randal and Robert Wilson were disabled while the Men from Inland were down by accidents from going inland this Summer. and Robert Tate and George Spence disabled by the Scurvy. also James Hourie supplied the room of Robert Tonnant? as Sailor at this place which prevented his going inland. Only four labouring hands are left now at the factory fit for duty. Had double headed outer beacon set. Employed taking stock."

Aug. 3
" Friday AM fresh Breezes Northerly and Cloudy PM Clear and Calm. Employed as yesterday and cleared out Warehouses."

Aug. 4
" Saturday AM Cloudy with showers of rain and squally winds PM more Clear with Northerly Breezes. Men variously employed collecting stones for fixing Still?"

Aug. 5
" Sunday Fine Clear and Calm."

Aug. 6
" Monday AM Stiff breezes NNE Cloudy with heavy rain. PM more moderate and Clear. All hands variously employed in house."

Aug. 7
" Tuesday AM Light Airs variable around the Compafs PM stiff breezes Northerly. Began putting up Launch at New York. Five Canoes of Natives arrived with green Venison and Deer skins which they traded."

Aug. 8
" Wednesday Early AM Calm afterwards fresh Breezes Northerly Clear. Two Natives arrived from Nelson River with Deer skins which they traded. When Tide served men employed as yesterday. Afterwards variously engaged packing furrs &c."

Aug. 9
" Thursday AM Breezes NE Clear PM variable SW Natives of yesterday and Tuesday went away. trusted several home guards winters debt. Finished Launch and began foundation for Distill house."

Aug. 10
" Friday Light Airs Southerly Cloudy and Sultry with flying showers. Men nearly as before. Had remainder of Buoys laid. Delivered Churchill Natives a supply of Ammunition and sent them off to that Settlement."

Aug. 11
" Saturday Cloudy with mizzling rain Northerly light Airs. Set five nets at point of Marsh. Rest of Men nearly as before. Eight Canoes of home guard Natives set off to their winter quarters."

Aug. 12
" Sunday Thick foggy cloudy weather with light breezes NE Mizzling rain. Henry Gaines Carpenter met with an accident this day by the bursting of his Gun which has shaken his hand very much. 'tis expected he will not be able to do any duty for a long time, both him and the Armourer John Mellam thibk themselves under no ones command on a Sunday, and they went out this day without mine or the Officers knowledge."

Aug. 13
" Monday Northerly Breezes Clear. Henry Gaines, Tho. Sinclair, Robt. Wilson, Robt. Randal and Dav'd Knarston under the Surgeons care. Shipwright and two afsistants with Craft master & sailor getting Sloop and Shallop ready. Taylors, Armourers, Bricklayers & Sawyers as before. the rest variously employed. sent three Natives acrofs the River to look for Game."

Aug. 14
" Tuesday Wind and Weather nearly the same.
Men and sick as before. - Natives returned from acrofs the River say no kind of Game is stirring."

Aug. 15
" Wednesday A continual rain AM fresh breezes Northerly and Cloudy. - Noon sultry and Calm, towards Evening cleared up. All hands variously employed in House. Indians returned from Churchill with a Packet."

Aug. 16
" Thursday Clear fine weather with Easterly Breezes.
All hands variously engaged."

Aug. 17
" Friday Strong Gales of wind NE cloudy with a continual heavy rain. This morning the Severn Sloop arrived and anchored abreast the Factory and soon after Mr Ballanden landed. All hands engaged in house picking Oakum."

Aug. 18
" Saturday Gale continued with unabated Violence 'till Noon when it became calm and Clear.
At day break this morning discovered all the boats driven from their moorings. two foundered and one mifsing the Sloop Churchill hove from the Stocks, and Shallop and Severn Sloop drove on the Flats - The new Slip at New York almost carried away with near twenty Yards of the Bank. all hands engaged in raising boats getting Sloop to proper moorings and raising boats and searching for the lost one which in the afternoon was found and brought to the Factory."

Aug. 19
" Sunday Hazy weather and Calm about Noon saw a Vefsel in the Offing sent down Willm Smith Craft Master and five other Factory men with the Churchill Sloop. several Canoes of Natives arrived."

Aug. 20
" Monday AM Cloudy with mizzling rain. PM more Clear. Engaged all the morning repairing Slip and damage done to the bank. About ten AM the Seahorse came to an Anchor in five fathom Hole. at Noon Capt. Hanwell landed and delivered your honor's packet. Called a council to appoint a Master for Severn Sloop in room of Mr Moore deceased, his late Mate George Foreman was judged an improper person to succeed in the Command and James Sutherland was appointed to fill that Station and Robert Gowland to act as his Mate for one Year 'till the Honble Companys determination is received."

Aug. 21
" Tuesday AM Calm PM light breezes NE Clear. Unloaded Severn Sloop and sent her down to the Ship also Shallop. Called a Council to take into consideration the distrefsed situation of our friends at Albany, finding it impofsible to send either of the Sloops from this place for want of Officers and Sailors - we judged it prudent to dispatch an order to Churchill for Capt. Williamson to proceed to Moose with the Nimble Brig. Minutes of the Council will be inclosed in the Packet. - Prepared Letters, closed Packet and engaged Indians to go to Churchill to morrow. Churchill Sloop came up - "

Aug. 22
" Wednesday AM strong Gales Cloudy PM more moderate and Clear. Sent off two Natives with Packet to Churchill, all those who arrived the 19th went away. And six Canoes of half Bungees arrived well loaded with furrs. Shallop and Severn Sloop came up early, the former with the Churchill unloaded as was in part the Severn, Discharged George Foreman late Mate of Sloop Severn and enter'd Richard Knight in our Books as Sailor for Severn."

Aug. 23
" Thursday Clear and fine with light airs variable.
Remainder of Severn Sloop's landed, afterwards dropt down to Ship as did the Churchill Sloop and Shallop the two latter came up in the Night."

Aug. 24
" Friday Wind and Weather the same. Sloop & Shallop unloaded and dropt down to Ship with Long boat. the Severn Sloop came up as did the Shallop. the Sevrn sloop unloaded - Mr Philip Turnor with 6 Men in two large Canoes arrived from Nelson River having left the Goods they had in charge with James Spence. on their return one Canoe unfortunately upset whereby Mr Turnor lost his Sextant with every thing he had of Value with him except the Watch. as Mr Turnor returns to England he will be able to answer any questions respecting this River. eleven Canoes of indians arrived tolerably well loaded with furrs."

Aug. 25
" Saturday Wind and Weather nearly the Same.
Unloaded Shallop. Long Boat came up and unloaded. put stones on board the above, also on the Severn Sloop. - Saw a smoke at French Creek sent Men in Boat who returned with several home guard Indians who inform me they found in a Canoe up Ship river near the Coast a dark Green fine Coat a white cotton waistcoat and other Articles they know belonged to a European besides a Shot Bill and English Powder Horn with Powder therein quite fresh and dry. - Mr Ballanden tells me the Body of a Man was found near Severn by some Home Guards Indians drefsed in a European drefs the fine ruffled shirt he had on and all other parts of his drefs shewed plainly that it was an Officer of some consequence that has been cast away on that shore. from these Circumstances it is evident that some Vefsel must have been in the Bay besides those belonging to your honours. This is a circumstance of the utmost importance for your Honours consideration in case any European should ever touch at this place it is necefsary instructions should be sent us of the steps we are to pursue which shall be implicitly followed."

Aug. 26
" Sunday Breezes NE Clear and fine Severn Sloop droped down to Ship. - Cheif mate and Surgeon came on shore. And Natives of yesterday went away."

Aug. 27
" Monday Breezes variable NNW cloudy towards Evening heavy rain. Shallop and Long Boat droped down to the Ship. they came up and were unloaded.
The Bungee Natives of the 22nd and those of the 24th went away."

Aug. 28
" Tuesday AM Moderate light breezes and Clear PM strong Gales NNW and WNW Cloudy with rain.
The Shallop and Long boat dropped down to the Ship the former was obliged to run up half loaded - the Severn Sloop came up, hear no tidings of the Long boat, had the Sloop Churchill loaded with Stones. Five Canoes of Indians arrived with a few furrs and Deer skins. - Busily engaged packing Goods and Stores for inland."

Aug. 29
" Wednesday AM fresh Gales NE part Clear part Cloudy - PM more moderate
Engaged the whole day packing Goods for Inland serving out provisions to Men and preparing Canoes - Severn Sloop and Shallop unloaded - blefs God this Long Boat run up unloaded - Churchill Sloop drop't down to Ship - discharged John Mellam Armourer. - Thomas Hounsome Shipwright and Henry Gaines Carpenter from your Honours Service and sent them on board Ship. - The latter had no character given him - his unruly conduct has been such as to occaision much uneasinefs at this Factory - but notwithstanding the Council would now? agree to his having a Character given him yet he found means to purchase one from a few of the Men."

Aug. 30
" Thursday Light Breezes Variable raw Cold - AM part Clear part Cloudy PM Squally Cloudy with rain
Unloaded Shallop and drop't down to ship both Loaded with Iron Hoops - Severn Sloop took in part of Homeward bound Cargo - Sloop Churchill came up.
Laid out Canoe Cargoes - for the upper Settlements.Two Natives arrived with a packet for? Churchill."

Aug. 31
" Friday Stong Gales SE with heavy Rain.
Shallop and long Boat came up, the former lost the New Jolly Boat sent out last year by the breaking of the Painter - Not having but one Sailor at this place - The Craft is obliged to be given in charge to Sailors &c on board, who regardlefs of any thing not belonging to their own Ship they do more injury to our Craft than all the Service they afford us."

Sept. 1 1792
" Saturday AM fresh Breezes NE at times Squally with Rain - PM more moderate.
This morning Mefs Rofs and Oman accompanied by six Men in two Large Canoes set off for the upper Settlements - Unloaded Sloop Churchill, Shallop & Long Boat - Severn drop't down to Ship."

Sept. 2
" Sunday Variable Weather SSW Clear Weather
One Canoe of Natives set off & took trading Goods for Chatham House."

Sept. 3
" Monday Variable Winds AM Cloudy with showers of Rain PM more clear.
Stoned Sloop Churchill and Shallop and both dropt down to Ship - Capt Hanwell went on board. - Three Canoes of Natives went away - took Trading Goods for Mr Cook. - eight Men preparing to leave the Factory. Trusted several Natives Winters Debts."

Sept. 4
" Tuesday AM wind and weather the same PM heavy Rain
Severn Sloop came up as did the Shallop both unloaded. - Seven Canoes of Home Guards set off to their winters Quarters."

Sept. 5
" Wednesday part Clear part Cloudy with Showers of Rain
Churchill Sloop came up unloaded her. - Loaded Severn Sloop and Shallop with furrs - and Long boat with Stones and the whole dropt down to Ship.
Mr David Thompson with Seven Men in two Large Canoes loaded with Trading Goods set off up Nelson river to proceed on a? Journey of discovery towards the Athapascow Lake."

Sept. 6
" Thursday Breezes Nly part Clear part Cloudy with Showers of Rain.
Mr Cook accompanied by two Natives in a small Canoe set off to his station up Nelson River. Severn Sloop Shallop and Long Boat came up Loaded Churchill Sloop with Furrs. Had Severn cleared as to take in Cargo for that Settlement. Had Landing Check Book examined - It gives me pleasure in mentioning that I find no difficiency of Cargo except a Box of Vermillion and 24 Calumets & other triffling Articles which I hope to find in other? Packages - and I ? there never has been so compleat a Cargo Landed for many Years - it does much Credit to Capt. Hanwell and Officers."

Sept. 7
" Friday A Continual heavy Rain - Squally Weather
Sloop Churchill drop't down to Ship. Began Loading Severn with part of outerbound Cargo. - Lost the Coble Boat from her Moorings - tis to be feared she is drove out to Sea. this is the Second boat lost this Ship time, what we shall do for want of them God only knows."

Sept. 8
" Saturday AM Clear, Noon Rain which continued at Intervals the whole day. Breezes Var.
Loaded Shallop with Furrs and drop't down to Ship as did Long boat with Stone, Wood &c. Sloop Churchill came up - Blefs God we had opportunity to Dry our furs this morning ready for Packing sent them up to New York for that purpose.
Saw a Smoak at French Creek. Sent Men in boat who returned with several Indians with a few skins. - Shallop and Long Boat came up"

Sept. 9
" Sunday flying Showers with Wly Breezes
Engaged all this day packing furrs. - Stoned Shallop and Sloop Churchill the latter drop't down to Ship with all the remaining Pafsengers bound for England. Discharged from your honours Service Andrew Corrigal and George Rofs Steersmen, Thomas Flett Taylor &? David Knarston, William Duncan, David Allan, John Taylor and William Miller Labourers. Thomas Huntley and William Golding Sailors - and Thomas Robinson Sawyer - And Entered William Quarrier, William Lowes? and John Sangster Sailors for Severn on our Books."

Sept. 10
" Monday Clear fine Weather with Light Breezes NNE
Packed the last of the Furrs - Loaded Shallop with them and drop't down to Ship - Severn Sloop drop't down abreast the old Factory - All the Indians of Saturday went away could not prevail on them to stay to kill Geese they say there is no Game near the Coast to be procured and their families would starve before they reached their Wintering Ground so late in the Season."

Sept. 11
" Tuesday Light Breezes SSW and Variable Wly part Clear part Cloudy
Severn Sloop preparing to Sail - Sent down to Ship - Mr Philip Turnor will accompany the Captain on Board. - In the afternoon closed the Packet and delivered the same to Captain Hanwell. Pray God send the Sea Horse a safe and speedy Pafsage to England. Amen.
Jos. Colen."


1M160 B.239/a/92

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