"Diary of Occurrences at York Fort, by Joseph Colen
Chief Factor Commencing 16th Sept. 1795
...............................Ending 8 Sept. 1796"


Sept. 16 1795
" Wednesday Cloudy thick Weather with Strong Gales ENE
About Noon Closed the packet for England and delivered the same to Capt John Richards - It blows too strong for the Captain to venture in a Boat."

Sept. 17
" Thursday Gale Continues - Busily Employed in Ware Houses - Men securing Boats."

Sept. 18
" Friday Gale Continues with unabating Violence. Several of our Boats broke from their Moorings, two swamp'd. Men Employed nearly as yesterday"

Sept. 19
" Saturday Nly Breezes Clear - This Morning Captain Richards took leave and went on board Ship accompanied by Mr Thomas Thomas Surgeon. Saluted them at parting with 13 Guns and three Cheers. - Several families of Indians set of to their Winters Hunting Station"

Sept. 20
" Sunday part Clear part Cloudy variable Breezes
Sent Eight Men down to the Point of Marsh to haul Sein? for the Ships Company. No luck. - About Noon the King George - Queen Charlotte and Beaver Brig got under way and were soon after out of sight. - Pray God send them a safe and speedy pafsage to their distined ports Amen - Sloop riding at Anchor in five fathom Hole."

Sept. 21
" Monday Light Breezes Variable Clear weather - Attempted to take down Launch - but the great fresh of Water prevents our reaching the lower frame work. - All able hands engaged stowing away Cargo - Stacking? Hay &c Sloop came up - Began Distilling High Spirits - Three Men in Sick list
In the evening two Canoes of Natives arrived tolerably well Loaded with Furs"

Sept. 22
" Tuesday SW part Clear part Cloudy - Early this morning Mich. Hunt Armourer was discovered dead in his bed. tis supposed he expired in a fit (to which he was subject) suddenly last night, soon after he went into his appartment, as none of his Cloaths were off. He was an old Man very fieble and had been in the Sick list almost from the day of his landing.
Unloaded Sloop stowed away Cargo &c. Two making Coffin, two Digging Grave - Mr Howse very ill - James Halcro had the Misfortune to cut thro one of the Joints of his middle toe the beginning of this Month, I am apprehensive of a mortification coming on."

Sept. 23
" Wednesday Men variously Employed - In the afternoon buried the remains of Mich Hunt."

Sept. 24
" Thursday Men as before - except the Sailors who laid up the Shallop and long Boat in their old Winters Station below the old Battery House."

Sept. 25
" Friday Sent off Eleven Men (in Boats) to cut down Timber Saw plank &c at the enterance of Hill River - There was scarcily any Timber brought to this factory last Season and the Carpenters are at a stand. we cannot go on with the Buildings for want of wood. - As I am under the necefsity of sending such a distance for Timber (nearly 100 Miles) I sent sufficient provisions to keep the Men five Months. - The hauling it on Sleds would take up too much time and hard labour ? it depend? 'till the short Winter days. - Five Men afsisting the above and to return with Boats.
Mefs Cook and Ward with two Indian Youths set off to Tent and Hunt up Sumattaway River in order to supply the Sawyers &c if pofsible with fresh provisions. - Mr Whitford now at Gordon House is to join Mr Cooks' party - and the Men there to afsist the? Sawyers falling Timbers.
The Sloop laid up in her old Winters Birth"

Sept. 26
" Saturday Mens Employ nearly as before. Sick on the recovery"

Sept. 27
" Sunday - Read prayers."

Sept. 28
" Monday All hands engaged fixing up Stockades around the Works - except those men who are intended to reside at Winter Tents. - The Indian Hunters and families came from the fourteens River the Geese having left that quarter. Sent them down to the Marsh."

Sept. 29
" Tuesday Sent four Men to Pennycutway River to fish and Hunt till Christmas - Rest as before."

Sept. 30
" Wednesday Much Snow. - Had all the heavy Boats hauled up the Bank and secured for the Winter - afterwards Mens Employ as before - The Natives came from the Marsh with a few Geese - All Aquatic Birds having left this Coast."

Oct. 1 1795
" Thursday Sent two Men in Boat with Provisions to French Creek - These are to set Nets erect? Tent &c 'till the others join them - Rest as before."

Oct. 2
" Friday the same."

Oct. 3
" Saturday Had all the Canoes worth preserving laid up in safety. Men nearly the same"

Oct. 4
" Sunday - Read prayers."

Oct. 5
" Monday Sent four families of Natives to Tent and Hunt at Ten Shilling Creek - Two men came from Pennycutway with fish - Rest as last week."

Oct. 6
" Tuesday Took up the lower frame of Launch - afterwards Mens Employ as before. - Late in the Evening the Men sent to afsist the Sawyers &c the 25 Ult. returned and brought with them the remains of Trading Goods from Gordon House - which enables me to know the quantity and quality of trading Goods sent Inland last Summer. - I am sorry to remark the articles does not amount in M Beaver to two thirds of what was sent to the upper Settlements the preceeding year - and I much fear the Trade from thence will suffer in consequence. I know not on whom to fix blame but this I know - there were never more capable Steersmen at this place than were last Summer."

Oct. 7
" Sent seven Men with Boat Loaded with Provisions to the Islands up the River, where I intend to send Men to cut down fire Wood - when the River is froze over - their Services are required elsewhere for the present - The Shipwright accompanied them to cut down Boat Timbers &c. Sent three Men to french Creek to join those who set off the 1st Instant - Rest nearly as before."

Oct. 8
" Employment of men nearly as before."

Oct. 9
" The same - The men sent up the River the 7th returned with a few building Logs and Boats Timber.
Late in the Evening three Natives arrived from the Nestoowyans? or three points where Mr Sinclair resided last Winter - they came down this River, a convincing proof it is far out of Churchill Track."

Oct. 10
" Saturday - Much Snow fell last night and which continued at Intervals the whole day - Mens Employ nearly as before - The Natives of last night Traded - were trusted Winters debt and set off. - They are much disappointed no Englishmen are stationed at the Nestoowyans? and tell me it will oblige many of their friends to apply to the Canadians for necefsary articles they want - as they were not apprised? early enough? of that place being avacated? to provide themelves at the factory."

[In the margin " Mr Sinclair tells me those very Indians traded all their Furs last Winter with the Canadians and used their utmost endeavours? to draw others from the Company's Int't out of revenge for giving up that Settlement - What debts I trusted them is lost - 5 July 1796 J.C."]

Oct. 11
" Sunday Sent Eight Men to Tent at French Creek - to ? and Collect fireWood"

Oct. 12
" Monday Men variously Employed Mefs Whitford and Ward came from Sumattaway Hunting Tent with a good supply of fish - as did two Men from Pennycutway River."

Oct. 13
" Tuesday The Hunters of yesterday went away - Men as before"

Oct. 14
" Wednesday nearly the same"

Oct. 15
" Thursday nearly the same"

Oct. 16
" Friday Finished fixing up Stockades around the Fort. Upwards of three Acres of Ground is enclosed in with a strong Fence Eighteen feet high - one half of which is occupied by buildings - The rest intended for Gardens."

Oct. 17
" Saturday Had Mens House thoroughly cleaned and Cabbins fumigated."

Oct. 18
" Much Ice driving in the River - Read prayers."

Oct. 19 to 24
" Monday to Saturday Sharp freezing Weather & Men variously Employed"

Oct. 25
" Sunday Heavy Ice in the River"

Oct. 26
" Monday The River Ice set fast abreast the four Mile Gully and above the Mile Sand. - Men variously employed."

Oct. 27
" Tuesday - Employ as before - The Native Hunters came from Ten Shilling Creek with a few fish, Partridges &c."

Oct. 28
" Wednesday Men's employ the same & Natives went to their Tents."

Oct. 29
" Thursday the same."

Oct. 30
" Friday the same. Saw a smoke acrofs the River and four Men near it, fired two Guns & hoisted Colours - a signal for them to return to the Tent, as part of the Ice above the Mile sand has given way - and it would be attended with danger if they attemped to crofs it too low down."

Oct. 31
" Saturday Men's Employ nearly as before."

Nov. 1 1795
" Sunday Read the Service for the day."

Nov. 2
" Monday Men at house variously Employed."

Nov. 3
" Tuesday the same."

Nov. 4
" Wednesday ? Four men came from the Woods for necefsaries. they crofsed the River above the Mile Sand."

Nov. 5
" Thursday Men's Employ as before. - The Wooders went to their Tent - and two came from Pennycutway for Ammunition. they tell me the River Ice upwards is remarkably rough.
In the Evening the Men had a Bondfire and were diverting themselves as usual when a melancholly accident befel my Nephew Thomas Colen, who had ? put a number of fireWorks into his breast Pockets which took fire. - The consequences that insued? was dreadfull. all his Cloaths were blown to pieces and himself exhibited the most shocking spectacle I ever beheld, his body, hands, arms, neck, and face are dreadfully mutilated - part of the bones of his fingers and Ribs are bare - and I think it almost impofsible for him to survive the accident."

Nov. 6
" Friday Men as before Two Men came from French Creek Hunt. Tent with a few fish."

Nov. 7
" Saturday The Hunters of yesterday and Thursday went to their respective Tents - and two came from the Woods to bake bread.
Having Distilled upwards of 1500 Gall. of High Spirits Since the departure of the Ship - sufficient for next Years Consumption - had Worm Tub - and liquor Back? discharged and all utensils cleaned &c."

Nov. 8
" Sunday Wly Breezes Cloudy & drifting Snow"

Nov. 9
" Monday The Wooders of Saturday went to their Tent. - Sent four Men with them to afsist falling firewood &c - Those at French Creek are removed to the Islands up the River. - The few at home variously engaged."

Nov. 10
" Tuesday - the same - Hunters from Ten Shilling Came to the factory and returned to their Tent."

Nov. 11
" Wednesday nearly the same"

Nov. 12
" Thursday nearly the same"

Nov. 13
" Friday nearly the same."

Nov. 14
" Saturday the same. - Two Men came from French Creek Hunting Tent - and two from the Woods. - Tho. Colen dangerously ill at times delerious."

Nov. 15
" Sunday The Wooders and Hunters went to their respective Tents as did the Native Hunters to theirs - who came in this morning."

Nov. 16
" Monday - Men's Employ and Sick nearly as last Week."

Nov. 17
" Tuesday the same."

Nov. 18
" Wednesday John Brown added to Sick list."

Nov. 19
" Thursday the same."

Nov. 20
" Friday the same."

Nov. 21
" Saturday Nearly the same - Had Men's Cabins cleaned and fumigated - Two Men came from French Creek - as did the Native Hunters from Ten Shilling Creek - the latter returned to their Tent also Three? Men came from the Woods."

Nov. 22
" Sunday - The Wooders and Hunters of yesterday went to their respective Tents - and in the Evening two came from Pennycutway with Fish and Partridges - One of the Men being so much exhausted - fainted several times after his arrival."

Nov. 23
" Monday thick Drifting Snow - towards Evening a Hurricane of Wind - Men variously Employed - Too bad Weather for Hunters to leave the factory. - John Brown dangerously ill with an Inflamation in his Stomach."

Nov. 24
" Tuesday The Hunters of Sunday returned to their Tent - All hands at the fort employed clearing Snow from the Tops of buildings - The Snow is now deeper on the Ground than it has been for some years past - Sick nearly as before."

Nov. 25
" Wednesday Men variously Employed - Sick as before."

Nov. 26
" Thursday Nearly the same."

Nov. 27
" Friday Nearly the same."

Nov. 28
" Saturday - the same. Two came from French Creek Hunting Tent, two from Pennycutway and three? from the Woods."

Nov. 29
" Sunday The Wooders and French Creek Hunters returned to their Tents."

Nov. 30
" Monday The River Ice abreast the Plantation closed? during last night - Employment of Men, and Sick nearly as last Week."

Dec. 1 1795
" Tuesday - The same - Hunters came from Ten Shilling Creek and returned to their Tent."

Dec. 2
" Wednesday Sent off Pennycutway Hunters accompanied by two Indians - who are instructed to go to Mr Cooks Tent up Sumattaway River, and proceed from thence to the Sawyers in Hill River. - Mens Employ and Sick nearly as before."

Dec. 3
" Thursday Nearly the same."

Dec. 4
" Friday Nearly the same."

Dec. 5
" Saturday Nearly the same. The River Ice crofsed? abreast the factory for the first time this Season - Had the Mens Cabins cleaned and fumigated. - Three Men came from the Woods. - as did two from French Creek Hunting Tent."

Dec. 6
" Sunday The Wooders and Hunters went to their respective Tents. - Sent five Men with Dogs and Sleds to haul home the produce of the pennycutway Hunters - Indian Hunters came from Ten Shilling Creek and returned to their Tent."

Dec. 7
" Monday Mens Employ as last Week - Sick nearly the same . Geo. Monro added to the Sick list."

Dec. 8
" Tuesday Mens Employ and Sick nearly the same."

Dec. 9
" Wednesday the same. The Men sent to pennycutway the 6th Instant returned with six Sleds loaded with fish and Partridges. as did those who went to Mr Cook's Tent the 2d. two came for ammunition &c - Had a Watering and Victualling Hole cut in the River Ice."

Dec. 10
" Thursday Men variously Employ. Sick on the recovery. Hunters came from Ten Shilling and returned to their Tent."

Dec. 11
" Friday Men as before. The Hunters of the 9th returned to their Tent."

Dec. 12
" Saturday - The Sun has not been seen for Sixteen days past - this day its brilliancy was unusually great - Had Men's Cabins cleaned and fumigated. - Three Men came from the Woods - as did two from French Creek."

Dec. 13
" Sunday The Wooders and Hunters went to their respective Tents. Engaged three Natives and sent them off to convey Fresh Provisions from the Hunters at pennycutway - to the Sawyers in Hill River. - Read the Service for the day."

Dec. 14
" Monday Mens Employ nearly as last week - Sick as before."

Dec. 15
" Tuesday the same. - Mefs Longmoor and Howse set off to the Woods to examine Work done."

Dec. 16
" Wednesday the same."

Dec. 17
" Thursday the same.
Mefs Longmoor and Howse returned from the woods report favourable of Work done but instead of a Winters fire Wood being cut down as mentioned in last years Journal, there is not yet above half of one - and greater part of that have been cut this Season."

Dec. 18
" Friday Mens Employ nearly the same. In the Evening two Men came from Pennycutway Tent with fish and partridges."

Dec. 19
" Saturday Had Men's House thoroughly cleaned and fumigated. The Wooders came home with their bedding for the Xmas hollidays - Two Men came from French Creek."

Dec. 20
" Sunday The Hunters went to their respective Tents."

Dec. 21
" Monday Tradesmen at their respective occupations, Labourers cutting fire Wood. - Sick on the recovery."

Dec. 22
" Tuesday The same."

Dec. 23
" Wednesday The same."

Dec. 24
" Thursday The same.
The Hunters from French Creek and Pennycutway River came Home with Tents and bedding - The distance is too great from the Sawyers to come to the factory from Hill River for the Xmas Hollidays - or for Mr Cook and party to come from Sumattaway."

Dec. 25
" Friday Read Service for the day."

Dec. 26
" Saturday Men at their Holliday diversions - The Indians sent to the Sawyers Tent the 13th returned."

Dec. 27
" Sunday Read prayers."

Dec. 28
" Monday "

Dec. 29
" Tuesday Had Beacons set acrofs the River to Exercise? those Men who are fond of indulging themselves within doors during the Hollidays."

Dec. 30
" Wednesday Sent all hands for Boat left at french Creek last fall."

Dec. 31
" Thursday - All hands recreating? themselves."

Jan. 1 1796
" Friday the Same - Men finished their holliday diversions and began the New Year with Mirth? and good humour. An old Indian Man broke two of his Ribs last night by a fall - which I set."

Jan. 2
" Saturday Twenty Six Men preparing to leave the factory on Monday. - The rest variously Employed. - Mefs Cook Whitford and Ward came home from Sumattaway River with their Bedding &c. - Engaged two Indians to go with a Packet to Churchill &c."

Jan. 3
" Sunday Engaged the whole Serving out necefsaries to men."

Jan. 4
" Monday Sent off three Men and an Indian Youth to Tent and Hunt acrofs Nelson River. - Three to Ship River, and three and an Indian Lad to Stony River. Mr Longmoor would have accompanied the latter but was prevented by Illnefs from leaving the factory. - Sent fourteen Men with large Sled to the Island up the River to Haul fire Wood and Timber to the Banks Edge ready for rafting in Summer - Eleven Men cutting down timber &c the Entrance of Hill River. - The rest variously engaged - two in Sick list - Prepared Letters and Closed Packet for Churchill and had Sleds loaded with high Spirits.
The Native Hunters came from Ten Shilling Creek with their families. - An Indian Woman froze her foot very badly coming to the factory."

Jan. 5
" Tuesday Mens Employ the same, too Severe for Packet Men to leave the factory."

Jan. 6
" Wednesday the same."

Jan. 7
" Thursday Sent off two Indians and Dogs with Packet to Churchill, and in order to facilitate Mr Stayners undertakings Inland - Loaded the Sleds with High Spirits. This obliged me to send an Englishman to take charge of it, as very few Indians are to be trusted alone with an an? article of that kind. - It was my intention to accompanied them, but having no Surgeon at York, and unfortunately many patients, whom I am necefsitated? to attend, prevents my leaving the factory."

Jan. 8
" Friday Mr Longmoor set off to Stony Rivers Hunting Tent accompanied by two Indians &c, Gave him Instructions to examine Ship River Beacon, and to report the quantity of Timber required to repair it &c. Rest of Men variously Employed."

Jan. 9
" Saturday Employ the same. - Three Men came from the Woods for provisions as did one Man from Nelson River Hunters."

Jan. 10
" Sunday The Wooders and Hunters returned to their Tents and two came from the Eastward with only 30 Partridges. The Men were very much frost bitten."

Jan. 11
" Monday Mens Employ as last Week - Too Severe for Hunters to leave the factory. - The Thermometer being 45° below the Cypher. - One of those who came home yesterday is very much frozen in his Legs - I am very apprehensive it will be a long time before he will be able to walk. -
The poor Indian Woman whose foot was frozen the 4th Instant in a bad situation - I was obliged to cut off the ends of two Toes this Morning to prevent mortification getting head."

Jan. 12
" Tuesday - Mens Employ nearly as before."

Jan. 13
" Wednesday the same. Sent two Men with one of the Hunters of Sunday to the Eastward Tents the other, James Halcro is unable to remove from his Cabin."

Jan. 14
" Thursday Men variously Employed."

Jan. 15
" Friday Men variously Employed."

Jan. 16
" Saturday Men variously Employed
Three Men came from the Woods to bake bread - and two from Nelson River Hunting Tent."

Jan. 17
" Sunday The Wooders went to their Tent - too bad Weather for Hunters to venture acrofs Nelson River."

Jan. 18
" Monday Mens Employ nearly as last Week. - Three in Sick list. - The Hunters of Saturday went to their Tent."

Jan. 19
" Tuesday Mens Employ nearly the same & Sick as before."

Jan. 20
" Wednesday Mens Employ nearly the same & Sick as before."

Jan. 21
" Thursday Mens Employ nearly the same & Sick as before.
Two Men came from the Eastward Tents with upwards of three hundred partridges."

Jan. 22
" Friday The Hunters went to their Tent. - Men as before."

Jan. 23
" Saturday Three Men came from the Woods brought home Magnus Hutchinson, disabled by a timber piece falling on him. - Had Mens Cabins cleaned and fumigated."

Jan. 24
" Sunday The Wooders went to their Tent."

Jan. 25
" Monday Two Men came from Nelson River Hunting Tent - The Men at home variously Employ. Sick as before."

Jan. 26
" Tuesday Men and Sick as before and the Hunters went to their Tent."

Jan. 27
" Wednesday Little variation in the Employment of Men these days -"

Jan. 28
" Thursday Little variation in the Employment of Men these days -"

Jan. 29
" Friday Little variation in the Employment of Men these days -"

Jan. 30
" Saturday Little variation in the Employment of Men these days -
Three Men came from the Woods - And sent off two Natives with fresh Provisions to the Sawyers Hill River."

Jan. 31
" Sunday The Wooders went to their Tent - Hearing? from those Men - that partridges were plentiful on the Islands up the River. - Sent one Man with the above who is to Hunt for the Wooders and Sleep at their Tent."

Feb. 1 1796
" Monday Men variously employed. Sick on the recovery. Two Men came from Nelson River Tent."

Feb. 2
" Tuesday The Nelson River Hunters returned to their Tent, and two came from the Eastward. - About Noon Mr Taylor, one Englishman and an Indian arrived with a Packet from Severn. Men as before."

Feb. 3
" Wednesday Mens Employ nearly the same. - The Eastward Hunters went to their Tent - James Halcro having recovered accompanied them."

Feb. 4
" Thursday Mens Employ nearly the same."

Feb. 5
" Friday Mens Employ nearly the same."

Feb. 6
" Saturday Mens Employ nearly the same.
Mr Longmoor returned to the factory. - three Men came from the woods accompanied by the Hunter sent there last Sunday - he tells me the Birds have left their feeding Ground on the Islands and are now on the Coast."

Feb. 7
" Sunday The Wooders returned to their Tent."

Feb. 8
" Monday Mens Employ nearly as last Week."

Feb. 9
" Tuesday the same - Two Men came from Nelson River Tent."

Feb. 10
" Wednesday The Natives sent to the Sawyers the 30th Ult. returned with Letters from the Pateroon informing me all their flour and Grain is expended - and expect to be at the factory in a few days."

Feb. 11
" Thursday Mens Employ nearly as before. The Nelson River Hunters went to their Tent - and three came from the Eastward."

Feb. 12
" Friday Mens Employ nearly the same - The Eastward hunters went to their Tents accompanied by Mr Longmoor."

Feb. 13
" Saturday Had Mens Cabins Cleaned and Fumigated. Three Men came from the Woods and two from Nelson River Tents. - About noon one of the Packet Indians sent to Churchill the 7th Ult returned accompanied by Mr Stayner and two Englishmen from that Settlement. - Mr Stayner tells me he left Henry Leask and the other Packet Indian at Churchill when he came away."

Feb. 14
" Sunday The Wooders went to their Tent."

Feb. 15
" Monday Mens Employ nearly as last Week."

Feb. 16
" Tuesday the same - The Sawyers &c who left the Factory the 25th of September last, and Employed during Winter cutting down Timber &c at the entrance of Hill River - returned with their bedding."

Feb. 17
" Wednesday - Men nearly the same. Henry Leask and Packet Indian left at Churchill by Mr Stayner returned, as did Mr Longmoor with his bedding &c. Two Men came from Nelson River - and two from the Eastward Tents."

Feb. 18
" Thursday All the Hunters returned to their respective Tents. - Mens Employ nearly the same."

Feb. 19
" Friday Mens Employ nearly as before."

Feb. 20
" Saturday Mens Employ nearly as before.
Four Men came from the Woods - one of whom returned with Medicines for Geo. Monro who was suddenly taken ill this morning."

Feb. 21
" Sunday The Wooders went to their Tent."

Feb. 22
" Monday Sent three pair of Sawyers to the Woods to cut Plank - and Boards for Boats - Boatbuilder began shaping Timber &c for Batteaux - Two framing work? for Distillery Ware House. the rest Employed nearly as last Week. - Got every thing ready for Mr Stayner to leave the factory tomorrow.
Late in the Evening two families of Natives came in with a few furs - one of whom is a Chief Leader and father in Law to the Indian who shot Mr Robert Thompson Canadian Trader last Spring. - Mr Stayner produced a letter he received from the Canadian Company requesting the Honble Hudsons Bay Company's Servants - to seize the Natives whose names are mentioned (this Chief being one) and to send them as prisoners to one of their Stations Inland. - Mr Stayner told me if the Natives had visited Churchill he would have seized them agreeably to the Canadian Gentlemen's request - and delivered them up as prisoners. - and asked me how I would proceed against the delinquents. - I answered - that I considered it would be an act of imprudence to pursue the plan he intended for he might rest afsured, numbers of Indians would soon afsemble and overmatch any force he could send with the Captive, they would not only rescue their Chief but resent the insult offered him - and it would be a miracle if any of those who had him in Charge escaped the fate of Mr Thompson. - for these reasons I should decline taking an active part in the apprehension of the Culprits - for by commiting such an act would be declaring open hostilities against the Indians and expose all the Honble Company's Servants Inland to their resentment.
If I have acted wrong it must be imputed to my want of knowledge in these matters. - And it would be a great satisfaction if instructions were sent to direct our proceedings - against a Delinquent - should the like fate of Mr Robert Thompson befal any of our people."

Feb. 23
" Tuesday - Strong Gales with thick Drift. Too bad Weather for Mr Stayner to leave the factory - Mens Employ as before."

Feb. 24
" Wednesday Mens Employ nearly the same - Two Men came from the Woods and hauled home George Monro.
This morning Mr Thomas Stayner accompanied by Mr Howse, two Englishmen, two Indians and Dogs with Sleds loaded with High Spirits set off to Churchill. - I sincerely hope our meeting will be for the mutual happinefs of each factory and benefit to the Company. - Mr Stayner is fully sensible of the error he has been led into by artful and false insinuations of ill disposed minds - promises faithfully to guard against such miscreants in future - and is sorry an explanation had not taken place sooner, which would have prevented as he says - his having done so much injustice.
- While at York Mr Stayner had free liberty to use his utmost influence to prevail on the Churchill home Guard Natives to return with him - Yet notwithstanding his liberal promises of kind treatment to them and families they refused to accompany him. - In order that he may have still greater influence over them I engaged two of the leading Men and those Mr Stayner terms his favorites - to go as Packet Indians, which will afford him opportunity when he gets them to Churchill to reconcile them to him - and which may be the means of making up the breach - which occaisioned all the Home Guards to leave that Settlement. Mr Stayner acknowledges he treated them harshly - which they as strongly resent.
- I am happy Mr Taylor was at York during Mr Stayners visit, his presence contributed to Mr Stayner and Mr Longmoor's reconcilliation. - We are fully convinced Mr Auld late Surgeon at Churchill was the Chief Instrument of sowing seeds of decention between them and the Officers of the two Settlements - and we are all as fully convinced that Mr Longmoor has been much injured."

Feb. 25
" Thursday Mens Employ nearly the same - The Wooders of yesterday went to their Tent and two came from Nelson River. - Traded with Natives of the 22nd.
- This Morning Mr Taylor and Severn Packet Men set off on their return to that Settlement."

Feb. 26
" Friday Mens Employ nearly a before. - Two Men came from the Eastward Tents. The Natives of the 22nd went away."

Feb. 27
" Saturday - Too bad weather for Hunters to leave the factory. Four Men came from the Woods - Had Mens Cabins Cleaned and fumigated."

Feb. 28
" Sunday The Hunters and Wooders returned to their respective Tents. - Sent off three Natives acrofs Nelson River to Kill Partridges"

Feb. 29
" Monday Mens Employ nearly as last week."

Mar. 1 1796
" Tuesday - Strong Gales of wind with thick drift - all hands variously Employed within Doors."

Mar. 2
" Wednesday Mens Employ as on Monday. One of the Natives who left the factory the 26th Ult. came to the factory to beg provisions, the late bad Weather prevented their proceeding on their Journey."

Mar. 3
" Thursday Mens Employ nearly the same."

Mar. 4
" Friday Mens Employ nearly the same."

Mar. 5
" Saturday Mens Employ nearly the same.
Four Men came from the Woods and two from Nelson River."

Mar. 6
" Sunday The Wooders went to their Tent. - Read prayers."

Mar. 7
" Monday - Nelson River Hunters went to their Tent and two came from the Eastward - Mens Employ nearly as last Week."

Mar. 8
" Tuesday - Mens employ nearly as before. -In the Evening four Natives arrived from Pathepow Nippee or Deep Water Lake, they were twenty Days on their Journey and tell me that a quantity of furs are torn to pieces and scatired around Gordon House which they say is done by wolverines one of which they found in a loft but escaped from them. they suppose the Skins had been left there by Indians since that House was evacuated last fall".

Mar. 9
" Wednesday - The Eastward Hunters went to their Tents. Mens Employ as before."

Mar. 10
" Thursday Nearly the same. The Natives of the 8th Traded and those sent acrofs Nelson River the 28th Ult. returned with 200 Partridges."

Mar. 11
" Friday Employment of Men nearly the same."

Mar. 12
" Saturday Employment of Men nearly the same.
Men came from the Woods, hauled home a quantity of Boards for Batteaux on large Sled. - Two came from Nelson River."

Mar. 13
" Sunday - The Wooders and Hunters returned to their Tents and the Natives of the 8 Instant went away. - Read prayers."

Mar. 14
" Monday Mens Employ as last Week."

Mar. 15
" Tuesday the same."

Mar. 16
" Wednesday the same - Two Men came from the Eastwards Tents."

Mar. 17
" Thursday the same. - the above returned"

Mar. 18
" Friday do." [Ditto]

Mar. 19
" Saturday do. All the Men came from the Woods with their Tent and Bedding - Two came from the Nelson River Tent."

Mar. 20
" Sunday Hunters went to their Tent."

Mar. 21
" Monday Sent Men with Large Sled to haul home Plank and Boards from the Woods - rest Employed as last Week."

Mar. 22
" Tuesday - the same - Sent Indians acrofs Nelson River to Kill Partridges."

Mar. 23
" Wednesday All hands at the factory variously Employed. In the Evening three Natives arrived with a few furs - they were ten days on their Journey - Inform me the Canadian Traders had paid them and friends a visit at their Tents about two Moons ago. - and further said they did not expect many of the Home Guard Natives could preserve? any? furs to pay their Debts - as those Enterprizing Traders"

Mar. 24
" Thursday Mens Employ as on Tuesday"

Mar. 25
" Friday - Service for the day performed. - Two Men came from the Eastward - The Indians of Wednesday Traded."

Mar. 26
" Saturday Men's Employ as on Thursday - Hunters went to their Tent and two came from Nelson River."

Mar. 27
" Sunday The Hunters went to their Tent and Indians set off."

Mar. 28
" Monday Sent 20 Men with large Sled to haul home Plank and boards from the Eight Mile Island - on their return the overflowings on the Ice was so great as to render it almost impofsible to get the Loaded Sled home which will oblige us to lay by the large Sled for this Season. - Rest of Men Employed nearly as last Week."

Mar. 29
" Tuesday The Indians sent acrofs Nelson River returned. Men variously Employed wheeling Snow from the Works to the Banks edge &c. Tradesmen at their respective occupations."

Mar. 30
" Wednesday Mens Employ nearly as before."

Mar. 31
" Thursday Mens Employ nearly as before.
Two men came from the Eastward Tents."

Apr. 1 1796
" Friday Men as before. - The Hunters went to their Tent."

Apr. 2
" Saturday Had Men's Cabins Cleaned and fumigated. - Two Men came from Nelson River Tents - accompanied by Mr Howse and packet Indians from Churchill."

Apr. 3
" Sunday The Hunters of yesterday returned to their Tent."

Apr. 4
" Monday Tradesmen at their various occupations Labourers variously employed Clearing Snow from Yard - making Drains from the Fort - Trenches for Stockades &c &c."

Apr. 5
" Tuesday The same."

Apr. 6
" Wednesday The same
This morning all the Natives set off to the Back of this Island to Tent for the Goose Season. - In the whole 38 people among whom are only 5 Hunters, the rest are Invalids Women & Children."

Apr. 7
" Thursday two came from the Eastward Tents. - Mr Ward accompanied them having had the misfortune to injure his hand by the blowing of his powder Horn which accidently took fire - Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Labourers cleaning Ware Houses, making Drains &c."

Apr. 8
" Friday Mens Employ nearly the same. Hunters went to their Tent."

Apr. 9
" Saturday the same. Two came from Nelson River Tent."

Apr. 10
" Sunday The Hunters of yesterday went to their Tent."

Apr. 11
" Monday Tradesmen at their respective occupations - Ten Men preparing & packing Goods for Inland - the rest clearing Drains."

Apr. 12
" Tuesday Mens Employ the same - In the Evening three Natives came in with dryed Meat &c and went to their friends who are Tenting the back of this Island."

Apr. 13
" Wednesday Men as before."

Apr. 14
" Thursday Men as before. - The Natives of the 12th came to the factory Traded and requested to stay during the flying of Geese &c. they are fearful to return to their friends Inland so late in the Season as the River Ice is covered with Water. - Fitted them out for the Goose Hunt and they returned to the Tents at the back of this Island.
- Got every thing in readinefs to pack Goods in Bundles for Inland - but we find ourselves at a lofs how to proceed without an Indent. - The transactions at this factory last year appear to be involved in mystery. - as very few original papers are to be found. Two Men came from the Eastward Tents."

Apr. 15
" Friday The Hunters went to their Tents - Gave them orders to bring home their Tents and bedding as there appears much Water on the Ice and I am fearful the Creeks will soon give way which will prevent their crofsing them with Sleds."

Apr. 16
" Saturday The Men had this day allowed them to take what articles they want from the Ware House - in order to close their accounts in factory Books. - All the Hunters came to the factory with Tent and bedding."

Apr. 17
" Sunday - Read Service for the day."

Apr. 18
" Monday Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Labourers variously Employed Digging Drains Clearing Snow &c &c.
All the Natives came from the back of this Island. gave the usual annual Treat prior to the Goose Season."

Apr. 19
" Tuesday Mens Employ the same."

Apr. 20
" Wednesday the same."

Apr. 21
" Thursday Mefs Cook and Whitford accompanied by Six Natives set off up Nelson River to wait the Crofsing of Deer.
Six Men afsisting packing Trading Goods &c into Bundles for Inland. The rest as before."

Apr. 22
" Friday - The same."

Apr. 23
" Saturday - This being St George's day - The old custom was observed of Exercising the Men with Small Arms at a Target for Prizes."

Apr. 24
" Sunday."

Apr. 25
" Monday All hands as on Friday - 1st Goose Killed this Season."

Apr. 26
" Tuesday Mens Employ the same - Mefs Cook & Whitford returned, as did the Natives no Deer Stirring, they brought the flesh of three Beaver. In the Evening the River Ice gave way and came down very rough. The Ground Ice at the Battry Bar and that on the Sands proving to strong stopt its progrefs and rose the water very high - which on its getting ? to Sea left large pieces of Ice piled very lofty on the Banks of the River and along shore."

Apr. 27
" Wednesday Mens Employ nearly the same. The Ice remains very lofty on the Banks &c. and I am fearful it will be late in the Season before the Shores will be clear."

Apr. 28
" Thursday Nearly the same."

Apr. 29
" Friday Nearly the same."

Apr. 30
" Saturday Nearly the same."

May 1 1796
" Sunday Indians brought in a few Geese and the flesh of one Deer."

May 2
" Monday Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Sent 8 Men to repair Deer Hedge, rest variously Employed on Inland duties &c."

May 3
" Tuesday Mens Employ nearly as yesterday - River Ice in motion several times this day and in the Evening we had a Clear Channel in the Middle of the River. but the Banks and Shores are loaded with heavy Ice which is piled very lofty."

May. 4
" Wednesday Mens Employ nearly the same."

May 5
" Thursday the same."

May 6
" Friday Drifting Snow All hands variously employed within Doors."

May 7
" Saturday Mens Employ as on Thursday."

May 8
" Sunday Hail Sleet and Snow."

May 9
" Monday Tradesmen at their respective occupations. Labourers variously employed."

May 10
" Tuesday the same."

May 11
" Wednesday Mens Employ nearly the same."

May 12
" Thursday As before. In the afternoon two Natives arrived, having left their Canoe with the flesh of four Deer on this side the four Mile Gully. - there being no place near the factory where they could land - They came from a party now Tenting near Pennycutway who came down from their Hunting Ground - but seeing the Ice piled so very lofty along shore were fearful of proceeding farther with their families. - These Natives tell me it will be late in Summer before the Shores and banks of the River will be clear of Ice. - Should this prove as they have represented it will be a great detriment to our plan of conveying Goods Inland early as I intend in order to make two trips from the factory to Gordon House. - Every thing is nearly ready to load four Boats."

May 13
" Friday - Launched a Boat over the Ice nearly fifty yards from the banks of the River, and lowered it by Tackle falls into the Water. upwards of twenty feet perpendicular. - Sent five Men up the River to examine the Shores &c as Indian Intelligence is not to be depended on. - Rest of Men as before."

May 14
" Saturday Mens Employ nearly the same - Men sent up the River yesterday returned - Report that the Ice along Shore resemble steep perpendicular Rocks many feet above the Water and appear from the Chasms and pieces frequently falling that it would be dangerous for Men or Boats to approach near. - Above the twelve Mile Island they say the Shores are not so loaded as those below. - They left the Boat according to directions - at the best landing place near the factory, which will serve as a Beacon for Natives coming down the River - The Boat is left on Ice about one Mile above the Plantation."

May 15
" Sunday Nly Breezes with Snow."

May 16
" Monday Tradesmen at their respective occupations Labourers clearing Ground for Gardens &c."

May 17
" Tuesday the same."

May 18
" Wednesday the same."

May 19
" Thursday the same except 8 Men sent to the Hunters Tent to bring home Geese."

May 20
" Friday As yesterday Six families of Natives came in they left their Canoes - up the river, with the Boat as mentioneded the 14th. - They complain very much of the scarsity of Beaver and other Animals - which formerly produced valuable furs."

May 21
" Saturday Such continuance of Cold Weather has not been know for many years at this Season - Yet I am in hopes it will be attended with some benefit to us, as large flights of Geese are now on the Coast, which they cannot leave ? visit their their breeding haunts until the Warm weather comes on - Our Hunters have been hitherto succefsful in supplying us with Geese this Spring which enabled me to have several Casks salted. part of the Indians paid debts and traded. - Men's Employ nearly the same."

May 22
" Sunday Engaged the whole day in trading Room."

May 23
" Monday Men variously Employed packing Goods for Inland. Three families of Natives arrived."

May 24
" Tuesday Men's Employ the same."

May 25
" Wednesday Men's Employ the same."

May 26
" Thursday Men's Employ the same.
The Natives who arrived the 20th and ? Instant set off acrofs the River to afsist killing Geese."

May 27
" Friday Men's Employ nearly as before."

May 28
" Saturday Had Boats Conveyed over Ice and let down by Tackle into the Water. and Goods intended for Inland Conveyed to Gordon House Hill River - rest of Men as before."

May 29
" Sunday Took took? Six Men and Boat and went to Ten Shilling Creek."

May 30
" Monday Sent ten Men to Tent for Geese, the rest engaged on Inland duties."

May 31
" Tuesday Two Indians arrived from Nelson River they crofsed this Island, and tell me the Ice has not yet given way - and requested a supply of provisions and ammunition as they intend waiting the crofing of Deer at Flambrough House, or until the River is clear of Ice and they can navigate Canoes in safety. After receiving supplies they set off. A Native Hunter came to this factory to acquaint me of the Geese having left this Island - Gave him a little liquor - desiring them not to come to the Fort with their families until they received orders when I should send a boat for their Tent &c.
Appointed Men for Boats - allotted Cargoes which I hope to send off tomorrow.
In the Evening one Canoe of Natives arrived, and what is singular only two leading Chiefs were the pafsengers. - They inform me the Canadians have a House errected? in the Jack River near the Play Green in the Main track to Cumberland House, and almost in the Center of York Fort Home Guard Hunters. and they do not expect any of them Will be able to pay their Debt this Season - as those enterprizing Traders collected the Skins almost as soon as the Animals were killed. - They also inform me our two Runaways John Ward and Peter Sabbeston wintered there with the Canadians - and that those men had introduced them to the haunts of our Hunting Indians."

June 1 1796
" Wednesday When tide served sent off twenty five Men in three Bateaux loading with Trading Goods to Gordon House amounting to upwards of 10,000 in ? Made beaver besides provisions - under the charge of William Manson Pateroon. Mr Whitford accompanied them to take charge of the Goods on delivery. - Remainder of Men as before."

June 2
" Thursday Twenty one Canoes of Natives arrived chiefly Home Guards they complain very much of the great scarsity of Beaver. - They plead this as an excuse for not having sufficient to pay their debt but I am of opinion the Canadians have had share? of their furs. - I am sorry their accounts confirm the Death of several valuable Indians - who died during the last Winter particularly our home Guard Captain and one of his Leading Men - these events happening so near each other prevented their followers from going after furs during the Spring.
All hands variously engaged."

June 3
" Friday Six Canoes of Natives arrived - and three came acrofs the River with Geese. - Engaged two Indians to follow the Englishmen who set of the 1st Inst. and to hunt for them during their pafsage to Gordon Ho. Rest of Men as before."

June 4
" Saturday All the Natives came from the Marsh. Men's Employ nearly the same."

June 5
" Sunday All the Goose Hunters came from acrofs the River. Geese Killed this Spring amount to 2237. - Six families of Indians went away."

June 6
" Monday All the Men engaged on Inland duties Natives &c."

June 7
" Tuesday Mens Employ as yesterday. Four Canoes of Natives went away."

June 8
" Wednesday the same. - Sent Eight Canoes of Natives up the River to attend the Crofsing of Deer."

June 9
" Thursday The same. Two Canoes of Natives went away."

June 10
" Friday Nearly the same."

June 11
" Saturday the same. - Sent off seven Canoes of Natives to convey Goods to Gordon House. - I have pitched on those Natives for this duty who were unable to discharge their Contracted debts trusted last Summer - by which means I shall be able to balance accounts with them. - Eight Canoes of Indians arrived with the flesh of 62 Deer."

June 12
" Sunday - Gusts of Wind variable with Thunder & Rain."

June 13
" Monday Men variously Employed on Inland duty packing Goods &c. - In the afternoon Willm Manson Pateroon accompanied by Six Men (being part of the party sent off the 1st Instant to Gordon House) returned having delivered the Cargoes up to Mr Whitford with whom he left according to orders four Men. - He also left fourteen to raft down Timber &c cut down last Winter at the Entrance of Hill River. - They brought down thirty Bundles of Furrs belonging to Indians who are Tenting up this River - killing Deer &c.
Sent off three families of Indians to Tent and Hunt at Ten Shilling Creek."

June 14
" Tuesday Mens Employ nearly as yesterday."

June 15
" Wednesday - nearly the same. Had large Batteaux Loaded with Trading Goods ready for men to leave the factory tomorrow. Muskatoes troublesome."

June 16
" Thursday Early this morning sent off William Manson Pateroon with nine Men in Large Batteaux Loaded with Trading Goods to Gordon House. All remaining hands engaged packing Goods &c for Nelson River and Athapascow Country Trade. which I intend sending off in large Boat with Men under the care of Mr Longmoor. Wrote Letters of Instruction to Mefs Rofs, Thompson and Sinclair - And arranged businefs for my leaving the factory - but was prevented from setting off by the arrival of five Englishmen and one Canadian in two Canoes Loaded with Furs from Crofs Lake House - also Mr Hallet with nine Englishmen in three Canoes from Swan River. - Mr Isham informs me by Letter of the death of Tho. Brown and Robert Whitley two Young Men and Valuable Servants they were carried off suddenly by Inflammatory fevers which raged with violence among the Company's Servants last fall at Swan River. the former died the 27th November the latter the 9th Decem.
Joseph le Rocker the Canadian who accompanied your honours Servants to the factory. came down purposely to enter into your honors Service but hearing he is a runaway and already under articles with the NW Canadian Proprietors - I engaged him conditionally that is - he is to remain in this Employ and enjoy the priviledges of any other the Company's Contracted Servant performing the same duty with himself. until we receive intelligence from Inland respecting John Ward and Peter Sabbeston who run from this factory last fall - and are said to have entered into the Canadians Employ."


[Here are 3 letters that are related and will eventually tie together. In the second letter "one of our Men in Maskiegon Country" is the "Joseph le Rocker" mentioned in the above entry. The letters are from Reel 1M256 York Factory Correspondence .... I think]

June 17
" Friday Called a Council to engage Men whose Contracts expire this Season - After this businefs was settled Gave Mefs Longmoor and Cook written instructions how to proceed during my absence from the factory - The former is to accompany Men and Boats up Nelson River _ and the latter attend Indians and factory duty.
- Delivered up the Keys and Charge of the factory to Mr William Hemmings Cook - about about noon embarked in a Canoe accompanied by an Englishman and three Natives - in order to meet the Honble Companys Servants from the Saskachiwan Settlements at Gordon House.
The principal occurences which took place at York during my absence are nearly as follow."

June 18
" Saturday Mr William Sinclair and party arrived at the back of the Island and sent Indians to the factory for Provisions having not had any thing to Eat for two days."

June 19
" Sunday Joseph le Rocker the Canadian who accompanied your honours Servants from Crofs Lake attempted to Kill an Indian on the plantation with a hatchet and had not Mr Longmoor prevented him he would perpetrated the Deed. - I must here observe the Indian above alluded to is one of the two mentioned by the Canadian Proprietors in their Letter of the 27 July last. vide Country Correspondence - And is supposed to occaisioned the Death of Mr Thompson their? Trader last Year."

June 20
" Monday Mr Sinclair and party arrived at the factory. the large quantity of Ice along the Shores of Nelson River which would prevent the men from tracking of Craft - stopped Mr Longmoor from setting off with large Boat loaded with Trading Goods to meet Mr Rofs at the first fall."

June 21
" Tuesday Mr Cook dispatched two Englishmen and the Canadian Joseph le Rocker in a Canoe with Goods to Gordon House. his reasons for sending off the above are explained in Letter No.23 Country Correspondence to which I refer." [And I don't have]

June 22
" Wednesday Mr Rofs and party arrived almost starving - Indians brought in the flesh of 50 Deer."

June 23
" Thursday Several Canoes of North and Musqua Rat Tiver Indians arrived.
- This day I reached Gordon House. it is with pleasure I mention that upwards of 16,000 MB in Trading Goods are in store there, waiting the arrival of the Companys Servants from Inland - to prevent any obstacle of men objecting to return, I have had conveyed there? a large stock of provisions - and the usual allowance served to those who navigate the Canoes is already packed - and sufficient to supply as many Canoes as have returned Inland for some seasons past."

June 24
" Friday Several Canoes of Natives arrived at York - as did the Englishmen with 20 Rafts of Timber from Hill River."

June 25
" Saturday - Sloop, Shallop and Long Boat were brought up the River and Moored abreast York Plantation. - Several Indians went away."

June 26
" Sunday This morning Mefs Sutherland, Wright, Bird, Oman and Swain with 50 Englishmen in Sixteen large Canoes arrived at Gordon House - one of which was sent from Swan River to Cumberland House to afsist down with furs. - There has never been a season since my residency in this Country so few Canoes from the Saskachiwan Settlements as this year. - Mr Sutherland informs me that Mr Tomison refused to come down in the Spring Canoes - but stays at Cumberland House to collect in a few debts he trusted Indians last Summer - He proposes to accompany the Men on their return for a second trip.
- What surprizes me not an officer remained Inland to take charge of the Company's property left at the different Settlements beside Mr Tomison - One and all coming to the lower Settlement annually is attended with a very considerable and heavy Expense to the Company and prevents a large quantity of Goods from being conveyed Inland."

June 27
" Monday - Began businefs early this morning - Called a Council to engage Men whose Contracts expire this Season - The same disatisfaction appear to reign among the Servants as for years past. - However when they found they could not gain their wished for ends a few became reasonable and entered into Contract.
- Those men who would not agree to your honours terms were selected out to make a trip to Cumberland House. - Mr Sutherland and the rest of Officers Over-ruled my proposition of sending every Canoe up - and to make a second trip from Gordon House as I intended - The reason they afsigned for Difsenting to my proposal were - They were fully convinced that as soon as Mr Tomison perceived such a number of Canoes loaded with Goods he would immediately select the best articles and proceed with the Men to the Upper Settlements - In consequence of this - when I found all my views? frustrated, all my Summer's labour lost, and the mens time employed unnecefsarily in conveying Goods up this River - I confefs I felt myself in a very unpleasant situation - As by the late regulation all Officers who enjoy a Command Inland are appointed of the Council - they of course form a majority and over-ruled every one of my propositions of sending Goods higher up this Season - which could have been done without much lofs of time to the New House I intend to irrect this Season at the Jack River - and the men could return from thence to the factory for a second Trip. - When I found nothing of this sort was to be effected - I left Mr Sutherland and the rest of the Officers to pursue the plan most advisable for the Company's benifit - they being better informed of the concerns Inland than 'tis pofsible for me to know - Gave Mr Bird instructions to accompany the Men and Canoes to Cumberland House - this also would been over-ruled - but on my insisting on his - or Mr Sutherland's accompaning them to take charge of the Goods on delivery - when with much reluctance he agreed to return with them - Began to arrange businefs for leaving the Rock House Having finished what I judged necefsary."

June 28
" Tuesday - Left Mr Whitford directions in Writing respecting the Employment of Men stationed with him as well as the necefsary repairs to be done to building and the treatment of Indians who visit him. - Gave Instructions to see Men and Canoes set off for Cumberland House - I Embarked at Six OClock with three Natives in a Canoe - and proceeded down the River, and on"

June 29
" Wednesday about noon I arrived at York, where I found many different Tribes of Natives Tenting on the Plantation - And many of the Companys Servants who arrived during my absence from the Northward Settlements."

June 30
" Thursday All hands engaged carrying wood up the Bank. In the afternoon Mefs Sutherland, Wright and Swain accompanied by thirty Eight Englishmen arrived in Eleven Canoes from Inland. - Only five Canoes were dispatched from the Rock House. Conducted by Men whose times expire this Season and will not agree to your honours terms - these with young hands who afsisted? working up the Boats are .................. sent to bring down the furs left at Cumberland this Season. I cannot help remarking in this place - the few Canoes brought from Inland this Season. - In the years 1786 & 1787 &c &c. twenty four large Canoes were brought from the Hon'ble Company's Settlements up the Saskachiwan - the number of Men on the Establishment at that time were scarsely more than two thirds of the present Compliment - tis true a few years ago Women afsisted the Englishmen as well as Natives - the former are not permitted to visit the lower Settlements with their Husbands - this occaisions much murmuring among the Men and forces many to leave the Service sooner than they wished to leave it - An Indian Chief accompanied the Officers from Inland.
The Men with Batteaux loaded with the furs brought down by Canoes which returned to Cumberland from Gordon House. - Arrived in the Evening."

July 1 1796
" Friday Called a Council to engage Men who came from the Northward Settlements - & whose times expire this Season - Men engaged on Inland duty."

July 2
" Saturday Variously Employed on Inland duty."

July 3
" Sunday Several Indians arrived."

July 4
" Monday Sent several Men to raft home fire Wood. - All those whose Contracts expire and will not agree to your Honours terms to return Inland put on factory duty.
- We find ourselves much troubled fixing Men for the Athapascow Country - those men who have been Employed on that Journey positively refuses to return on account of the extreme scarsity of provisions in that quarter. - several good Servants whose times are out are willing to remain in the Service - and actually engaged for one third lefs Wages annually than they would have received had they gone to the Northward."

July 5
" Tuesday all hands nearly as before. Two Men Arrived with Letters from Gordon House."

July 6
" Wednesday Employment of Men as before - those sent to the Woods the 4th returned with 8 Rafts."

July 7
" Thursday - Engaged Indians to afsist carrying Wood up Bank.
Joseph le Rocker the Canadian whose name is mentioned the 18th Ult. attempted this day to kill an Indian on the plantation, whom he stabbed with a Knife in three places - but was prevented putting his designs in execution by the timely intervention of Willm Smith Craft Master.
- Called a Council to consult the proper steps to be pursued against this deliquent when it was thought advisable to confine him. - The reasons afsigned by the Canadian Joseph le Rocker for committing such an action because the Native he wished to distroy was a relation to the Chief who shot Mr Thompson his former Master. - However praise worthy such retaliation might appear it was not for me to countenance such an action at this place. - He was in consequence hand cuffed 'till the Evening when he was confined to a Cabbin separate from the other Men and a Guard placed over him to prevent his going without the Gates - And this I did for his own safety - as the Natives are determined to revenge the insult.
- Several of the Company's Servants were examin'd particularly Robert Garroch Sen. Hugh Leask and John Davie who declared before the Council - that Joseph le Rocker the Canadian - had frequently mentioned in conversation - that he left the Grand North West Company's Service purposely to revenge the Death of his old Master Mr Rob. Thompson - for which he was to be rewarded by having a large debt of nearly one thousand livers Cancelled - And to accomplish this the more readily he entered into the Hudsons Bay Company's Employ - and that it was his determination to kill an Indian before he left the factory."

July 8
" Friday Sent off several Indians to the Eastward and laid out Cargoes for the Athapascow Country. - Men's Employ nearly as before."

July 9
" Saturday - Nearly the same - Contrary Winds prevents the Canoes rounding the point of Marsh. - Notwithstanding the Men are fixed to Canoes - appointed for the Athapascow - we have much trouble - they are not satisfied with the Agreements and Contracts entered into - And James Ballanden positively refused duty until he had a Certificate given signed by the Council to advance his wages to 12£ pr Annum during the time of his being Employed to the Northward - with the additional bounty of one fourth added thereto the same as other men performing the same duty to which we were obliged to comply - As we could not prevail on any other to supply his room - In order to satisfy the whole of the Companys Servants going to the Northward - we have been necefsitated to give notes under our hands for the payment of their Wages to prevent that Expedition being again set aside.
But in order to put a stop to such conduct now the Canoes are on the eve of departure from York - and prevent others from following James Ballandens plan we found it necefsary to fine them five pounds which was unanimously agreed to - And the aforesaid James Ballanden was fined accordingly."

July 10
" Sunday Sent off five Men in a Canoe to Gordon Ho. with Goods & Provisions."

July 11
" Monday Contrary Winds prevents Men from Leaving the factory - All hands variously employed on Inland duty."

July 12
" Tuesday the Same - Engaged two Indians and sent them off with a packet to James Tate. Master of Crofs Lake House - directing him to convey the Goods he has on remains to the Jack River - at which place he is to give Mefs Sutherland and Longmoor the meeting? "

July 13
" Wednesday Sent off four Men in Long Boat with the Canoe Cargoes for the Athapascow Trade - and when tide served Mr Rofs accompanied by thirteen Men set off in Empty Canoes. - with which they rounded the point of Marsh - I refer your honours to No. 28 Country Correspondence - my Instructions to Mr Rofs &c. - Rest as before."

July 14
" Thursday The Men with Long Boat returned having delivered their Cargo safe to Mr Rofs - the rest as on Monday."

July 15
" Friday the same."

July 16
" Saturday do."

July 17
" Sunday Early this morning Mefs Sutherland and Longmoor accompanied by Mefs Hallet, Tho.? & James Swain and 53 Men in 16 Large Canoes set off Inland - The Indian Chief who came down with the Companys Servants from the Upper Settlements went away & appeared fully satisfied at the reception he met at York - I presented him many valuable presents - also a Calumet - by which I hope to establish a league of friendship between him (his people & Nation) and the Honble Company - for which purpose he came down to the fort. -
- I must remark once more - The number of Officers coming down from Inland to the fort, is attended with a very considerable and heavy expense to the Company and answers no purpose whatever but that of stopping a large quantity of Goods from being conveyed to the upper Settlements. - The officers who set off this day - prevented upwards of three Canoe Cargoes of Trading Goods from being taken from York. the returns of which upon an Average is not lefs than 750 MB (each Canoe Cargo) - An object of some consequence in my opinion -!
- I have taken the liberty to give Mr Sutherland Instructions on this head - to stop Officers from coming down in future - To which I refer vide Country Correspondence No.33 - Notwithstanding I am apprehensive this will not be attended to unlefs enforced by orders from England.
- Mr Longmoor having exprefsed a desire to go Inland, for which situation he appears well adapted. I sent him to settle a House at the Red Deers River in opposition to the Canadians who have long enjoyed the trade there unmolested and from which place they have collected many furs. - Mr Isham is recalled from Swan River - which Settlement the Indians have long deserted. - The Furs he collected this Season was from Red River - as I hear the Honble Company's Servants from Albany were settled there last Winter - Mr Ishams removal is ordered? to prevent opposition or disentions arising between the Officers from Albany and those from York. - The Red Deers River is in the Neighbourhood of Swan River on the South Side of Lake Oo Winnepeg - and Mr Isham is to co operate with Mr Longmoor - in his pursuits.
- Men are also sent to errect a House in the Jack River near Buskacoggan Lake - in opposition to the Canadians who built their last fall, and collected many furs from York Fort Home Guard Natives.
I sent Joseph le Rocker the Canadian with Mr Sutherland who has orders to deliver him up to his former Employers - provided they deliver up our two Runaways John Ward and Peter Sabbeston - vide Country Correspndence No. 32
In order to prevent our experiencing the inconveniences felt this Summer for want of Canoes and as information tells me that Boats can be navigated with ease from Buskacoggan to the Upper Settlements a distance of nearly 1100 Miles. I engaged Nich'l Spence, a Clever man building Boats and sent him with Mr Sutherland - which will I hope in a great measure put a stop to the Canoe builders in this Service afsuming to themselves so much consequence."

July 18
" Monday Sent 12 Men to raft home fire Wood - rest variously Employed."

July 19
" Tuesday the same. - Prepared Letters and Closed Packets for Churchill and Severn Settlements."

July 20
" Wednesday Men's Employ nearly the same. Early this morning Mr Willm Sinclair accompanied by Nine Englishmen and Seven Indians in four Large and three Small Canoes set off up Nelson River. - The few Canoes brought down this Season from the Inland Settlements obliged me to exert my utmost to get the Canoes left at York last Summer repaired - which I accomplished with some difficulty - This enabled me to send up a large stock of Trading Goods as well as all the Young hands (one only excepted) who came out last year. - A similar circumstance of fitting out more Canoes from the factory than were brought down the same Season has never happened since Inland pursuits has been carried on from this place.
- Sent off Indians to Churchill and Severn with Letters. - Robert Wilson Taylor accompanied those to the latter Settlement."

July 21
" Thursday All hands engaged packing Furs - trusting Natives Winters Debts &c."

July 22
" Friday the same. Six Canoes of Natives set off to their Winters Hunting Station and Six Men came home with Eight Rafts of fire Wood."

July 23
" Saturday Mens Employ nearly as before."

July 24
" Sunday Ten Canoes of Natives went away."

July 25
" Monday - As did Eleven families this day - Five Men packing furs the rest carrying Wood up Bank."

July 26
" Tuesday the same - Sent men for Rafts - and to Cut Grafs &c."

July 27
" Wednesday - Nearly as yesterday."

July 28
" Thursday the same - and five families of Natives went away"

July 29
" Friday - The Wooders sent home six Rafts - Had Beacons &c prepared and the Grafs cut on the Island brought home."

July 30
" Saturday Variously Employed."

July 31
" Sunday Wind Variable with Showers of Rain."

Aug. 1 1796
" Monday Strong Gales with heavy Rain. - All hands engaged in Ware Houses - and afsisting taking Stock."

Aug. 2
" Tuesday Sent twelve Men to set Beacons and lay the outer Buoys. - The rest with Natives carrying Wood up Bank. - The Natives sent to Churchill the 20th Ult. with Packet returned."

Aug. 3
" Wednesday The Wooders sent home Six Rafts. Mens Employed carrying Wood up Bank &c."

Aug. 4
" Thursday the same - Rafts sent home by Wooders"

Aug. 5
" Friday the same."

Aug. 6
" Saturday the same. four Men brought ? Rafts."

Aug. 7
" Sunday Sent Six Men to the Woods."

Aug. 8
" Monday Strong Gales of wind which blowed down part of the Western range of Stockadoes. Men employed securing the same carrying Wood up Bank &c."

Aug. 9
" Tuesday - Mens Employ nearly the same."

Aug. 10
" Wednesday Men variously Employed - Had Lime Kiln set."

Aug. 11
" Thursday Had remaing? Buoys set. and Grafs brought home from the Islands. - Rest as before. In the afternoon Mefs Tomison and Oman accompanied by fourteen Men arrived from Cumberland House in five Large Canoes loaded with furs. - Mr Tomison on meeting Mefs Sutherland & Longmoor's party would not permit James Swain to proceed Inland - he took him back to the factory - and intends sending him to England as unfit for the Company's Service."

Aug. 12
" Friday Nearly the same. About noon the Beaver Brig appeared in the Offing - Answered the Signals - run up with the Tide, and anchored abreast the Fort and soon after Mefs Ballanden and Taylor landed. - In the Evening the Packet Indians sent to Severn the 20th Ult. returned. - Several Canoes of Indians arrived accompanied by Peter Hutchinson who had been left by Mr Rofs at the Split Lake House disabled and unfit to proceed on the Journey."

Aug. 13
" Saturday Had Launch fitted up. - and Men came home with Eight Rafts of fire Wood. - Several Indians arrived."

Aug. 14
" Sunday Sly Breezes Hazy Sultry Weather."

Aug. 15
" Monday the same - Sent Eight Men to cut Grafs, the rest carrying wood up bank - packing furs &c."

Aug. 16
" Tuesday Mens Employ nearly the same. - Had Severn Homeward bound Cargo landed in York Ware Houses. - Indians arrived and brought Letters from Mr Sinclair."

Aug. 17
" Wednesday Men variously Employed."

Aug. 18
" Thursday Men variously Employed on Inland duty making Canoe Tracking Line &c - A Vefsel appeared in the Offing. - Deliverd Captain Taylor his Instructions. - Seven families of Natives crofsed the River to Kill Geese &c."

Aug. 19
" Friday - This morning Early Captain Taylor in the Beaver Brig drop't down the River and Anchored in five fathom Hole, and soon after a signal was hoisted by a Vefsel in the Offing which was answered by the Brig - by running out to pilot the Company's Ship over the Flats."

Aug. 20
" Saturday About noon the King George Anchored in five fathom Hole and in the afternoon Cap. Richards accompanied by Mefs Jarvis, Thomas and Sutherland Landed with the Packet."

Aug. 21
" Sunday All the Pafsengers engaged for York Landed."

Aug. 22
" Monday - Sent down the Sloop and Long Boat to the Ship - As all the Sailors refused to go into the Shallop - Called a Council in consequence all the Sailors and Shipwright were examined. they one and all declared it was unsafe for a Man to venture himself in while at Anchor - that her Works were kep't together by the lining only - and notwithstanding the repairs she has undergone this Spring can scarsely be kep't above Water - She was in consequence condemned as unfit for Service.
- In the Evening the Ship & Country long Boats came up - with Letters - inform'd the melancholly fate of one of our Sailors being Drowned by his foot Sliping on going out of the Ship into the Boats - his name John Robinson - had been in this Country two Years."

Aug. 23 & 24
Tuesday and Wednesday " Engaged unloading Ship - receiving Cargo and packing Goods for Inland. - Several Canoes of Indians arrived."

Aug. 25
" Thursday Employed as before - The two packet Indians sent to Crofs Lake the 12th July last returned"

Aug. 26
" Friday Engaged as before - Capt. Richards and Mr Wright went on board Ship - Laid out Canoe Cargoes and appointed Men who I hope will set off tomorrow."

Aug. 27
" Saturday Early this morning Mr Oman accompanied by Nineteen Men set off in five Canoes loaded with Trading Goods to the upper Settlements - and soon after Mr Tate and Wm Mowat arrived from Crofs Lake. - Employment of Men as before - Capt. Richards and Mr Wright came on shore - Several Indians went away to their Winters Hunting Ground."

Aug. 28
" Sunday 28th An Indian came in & informed me one of those who set off yesterday being stabbed by his Companion - Sent Mefs Wright, Thomas &c to examine the Wounded Man - on their return report favourably of him."

Aug. 29
" Monday All hands Employed discharging of the Ship - Sent part of the Homeward bound Cargo on board."

Aug. 30
" Tuesday Employed as before. Eight Canoes of Natives went away."

Aug. 31
" Wednesday the same. Six? Canoes of Natives went away."

Sept. 1 1796
" Thursday the same."

Sept. 2
" Friday This morning the signal was flying on board the King George of a Vefsel being in the Offing - about Noon the Queen Charlotte anchored in five fathom Hole."

Sept. 3
" Saturday Capt. Turnor and Mr Nelson Landed. Nine Canoes of Bungee Indians arrived."

Sept. 4
" Sunday Busily Employed trading with Natives &c."

Sept. 5
" Monday Engaged Packing furs - trading with Indians &c - Had the Brig loaded with Cargo for that Settlement."

Sept. 6
" Tuesday Finished packing furs and sent them on board Ship - Capt. Turnor and Mr Nelson went on board - About Noon Capt. Taylor and Mr Thomas took leave and went on board the Brig - which drop't down the River and anchored in five fathom Hole."

Sept. 7
" Wednesday - About Noon the Beaver Brig Weighed Anchor and Sailed for Severn - A Boat came from the Ship for the Captain - brought word that only four Casks of Powder could be spared from both Ships - what we shall do for Powder for next years Supply I know not."

Sept. 8
" Thursday this Morning Closed the Packet and delivered the same to Captain Richards who is going on board Ship? accompanied by Mefs Tomison Ballanden and Tate pray God send the Ships King George & Queen Charlotte a safe and Speedy pafsage to England Amen.

Errors Excepted
Jos. Colen."


1M161 B.239/a/99

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